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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.
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