We are Wave Petunias, a specific cultivar series of the species *Petunia x hybrida*. Unlike our more traditional, upright garden cousins, we are a ground-breaking (quite literally) type of spreading petunia. Our name comes from our unique growth habit; we do not grow upwards in a neat mound but instead send our stems cascading and trailing outward, creating a "wave" of vibrant color. We can spread vigorously, covering up to 4 feet of ground in a single season or spilling beautifully from containers and hanging baskets. Our lineage was specifically bred for this profuse blooming habit and exceptional weather tolerance, making us a dominant presence in the summer garden.
To thrive and perform the spectacular show we are known for, we have several non-negotiable requirements. First and foremost, we are sun worshippers. We demand a minimum of six hours of direct, full sunlight each day; the more sun we receive, the more energetically we will photosynthesize and produce our brilliant blooms. Our roots despise being waterlogged. Therefore, we insist on being planted in well-draining soil. A light, fertile soil mix amended with organic matter is ideal for us. While we are heavy feeders, we prefer a gentle, consistent supply of nutrients. A balanced, liquid fertilizer applied every other week, or a slow-release fertilizer mixed into our soil at planting, will fuel our massive flowering display without risking root burn from overly strong formulas.
Our relationship with water is one of delicate balance. Our shallow root systems are susceptible to rot if left sitting in saturated soil. The goal is to keep our soil consistently moist but never soggy. The best method is to water us deeply at the base, allowing the water to soak down to our root zone, and then let the top inch of soil dry out before watering again. During the peak heat of summer, we will likely need a deep drink daily. Wilting is our primary signal that we are severely stressed and desperately need water. A quick recovery after watering confirms we were just thirsty, but consistent wilting can weaken us significantly.
One of our most celebrated traits is that we are self-cleaning. This means that unlike other petunias, we do not require the tedious task of deadheading (removing spent blooms) to continue flowering. Our old blossoms will naturally wither and drop away, and we will quickly redirect our energy into producing new buds. However, if our stems become long and leggy by mid-summer, with fewer flowers at the center, we welcome a vigorous pruning. Do not be afraid to trim our stems back by one-third to one-half of their length. This will shock us into producing a fresh flush of new growth and an even denser, more spectacular wave of color for the remainder of the season.
