From our perspective as Wave Petunias, our primary need is abundant sunlight to fuel our growth and prolific blooming. We require a minimum of six to eight hours of direct, full sun each day to perform efficient photosynthesis. This process converts light energy, water, and carbon dioxide into the sugars that power our expansion and flower production. While we can tolerate very light shade, insufficient light will result in leggy stems with fewer flowers as we stretch desperately towards the sun. Please also ensure we are planted in well-draining soil. Our roots are highly susceptible to rot if left sitting in waterlogged conditions, which suffocates them and prevents nutrient uptake.
When it is time to plant us, proper spacing is critical for effective ground cover. To create a continuous carpet, place our young plants approximately 12 to 24 inches apart. This may seem sparse initially, but our vigorous, spreading habit will quickly fill the gaps. Gently tease apart any pot-bound roots before placing us in the ground. This encourages our roots to grow outward into the surrounding soil rather than continuing in a circular pattern. Plant us at the same depth we were growing in our nursery pots, and water us deeply immediately after planting to settle the soil around our root systems and eliminate air pockets.
To support our rapid growth and constant flowering, we are heavy feeders. At planting, incorporate a slow-release fertilizer into our soil to provide a steady supply of essential nutrients like nitrogen for foliage growth and phosphorus for bloom development. For sustained performance throughout the season, supplement with a water-soluble fertilizer applied every one to two weeks. Our watering needs are consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry periods. Water us deeply at the soil level, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overhead watering, which can promote fungal diseases on our leaves and flowers.
Unlike other petunias that require deadheading, we are specifically bred to be self-cleaning. Our spent flowers will naturally wither and drop away, allowing us to redirect our energy into producing new blooms and expanding our reach rather than into seed production. However, if our stems become overly long and leggy by midsummer, a more aggressive approach is beneficial. Do not be afraid to trim us back by one-third to one-half of our length. This pruning stimulates a flush of new, bushier growth from the base and encourages a fresh wave of flowers, maintaining our dense, carpet-like appearance.
