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Petunia
Petunias are known for their display of eye-catching color. Few plants
rival petunias for their bright color, ease of growth and variety of
garden uses. Petunias come in a variety of colors; many are starred,
zoned, striped or otherwise marked with contrasting colors. The
trumpet-shaped flowers often have frilly edges; most are singles, some
are doubles, and a few are quite fragrant. The grandifloras produce
large flowers, usually wavy, up to 4 inches across. Multifloras produce
more flowers usually with smaller blooms. The cascading and new upright
varieties are excellent in hanging baskets, planters and window boxes.
Bedding varieties are beautiful in mixed beds, mass plantings, edgings
and are also good filler plants in borders.
Petunias should be located in full sun or very light shade. They prefer
well-drained soil. The growth is best when the soil is kept moist, but
established plants tolerate moderate drought. Multifloras tolerate
summer heat better than grandifloras. Pick dead blooms and trim
back by one-third midseason to promote fresh growth and flowering.
Verbena
Verbena is a tender perennial grown as an annual. As an annual, it is a
vigorous bloomer, thrives in the heat, requires little maintenance and
comes in a wide range of colors. Flowers are borne in clusters 1 to 2
inches across and include white, creamy yellow, pink, red, purple and
shades in between. Many have contrasting white eyes. Verbena is
excellent for hanging baskets, planters and window boxes. Most types
grow no more than a foot tall and are also good in edgings, beds and
rock gardens.
Verbena should be located in full sun or light afternoon shade. They
prefer well-drained soil. Established plants will tolerate heat and
drought well.
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