Petunia Romantica Star

1. Choosing Petunia Seeds

• There are different varieties of petunias (Grandiflora, Multiflora, Wave, etc.), so choose based on your preference for flower size and growth habit.
• Some hybrid petunias may not grow true from seeds, so check the seed packet.

2. When to Plant

• Start petunia seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost in your area.

3. Materials Needed

• Petunia seeds
• Seed-starting mix (light and well-draining)
• Seed trays or small pots
• Clear plastic cover or plastic wrap
• Grow lights or a sunny windowsill
• Spray bottle for watering

4. How to Grow Petunias from Seeds

A. Sowing Seeds

1. Prepare the Soil: Use a fine, well-draining seed-starting mix. Moisten it slightly before planting.
2. Sow the Seeds: Petunia seeds are very tiny. Sprinkle them lightly on the surface of the soil. Do not cover with soil as they need light to germinate.
3. Mist with Water: Use a spray bottle to gently moisten the seeds without washing them away.
4. Provide Light: Place the tray in bright, indirect light or under a grow light for 12-16 hours per day.
5. Cover the Tray: Use a plastic cover or plastic wrap to maintain humidity.

B. Germination Process

• Temperature: Keep the soil at 70-75°F (21-24°C).
• Germination Time: Seeds should sprout in 7-14 days.
• Remove Cover: Once seedlings appear, remove the plastic cover to prevent mold growth.

5. Caring for Petunia Seedlings

• Lighting: If using natural light, place the seedlings in a bright window. Otherwise, use grow lights.
• Watering: Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water from the bottom or mist gently.
• Thinning: Once seedlings have two sets of true leaves, thin them by snipping weaker ones.
• Transplanting: When seedlings have 3-4 true leaves, move them into larger pots.

6. Transplanting Outdoors

• Hardening Off: Before planting outdoors, gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions for 7-10 days.
• When to Transplant: Once the danger of frost has passed and the temperature is consistently above 60°F (15°C).
• Location: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining, nutrient-rich soil.
• Spacing: Space plants 10-12 inches apart.

7. Ongoing Care

• Watering: Petunias prefer deep watering but don’t like soggy soil.
• Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks for continuous blooms.
• Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
• Pruning: Trim leggy stems to promote bushier growth.

With proper care, petunias will bloom from late spring until frost, providing beautiful color in your garden! 🌸