Petunias: A vibrant alternative to geraniums for Canadian gardens
Do you like geraniums but want some variety? Petunias, which also dazzle with colours, aren't too difficult to grow and, with proper care, will delight the eyes for weeks, they are a good choice.
8 June 2024 08:23
They come in many colours and thrive on balconies, terraces, and gardens. The petunia, as it's called, is a very popular flower. Its natural habitat includes warm countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. However, in Canada, you can easily find it in gardening stores.
Why should you buy a petunia? Below we present its characteristics, as well as valuable tips for those who have already purchased seedlings.
Petunia - an ornament for every garden
In Canada, you will most commonly find annual petunias grown from seedlings. They are typically treated as potted plants on balconies or terraces but successfully adapt to gardens. Importantly, petunias bloom from late spring until the first frosts, if properly taken care of.
This flower is not difficult to grow. Just remember a few rules. It will grow best in a sunny spot and then be covered with flowers. Also, ensure its location is sheltered from the wind. Unfortunately, Petunias don't handle storms and heavy rains well, so it's best to plant them in a pot that can be easily moved. The ideal soil for seedlings will be fertile, breathable, and slightly acidic. Water petunias generously, in heatwaves even twice a day - in the morning and evening. Also, remember to fertilize regularly.
Homemade fertilizer for petunias
If your seedlings start to weaken and dry, prepare a homemade nutrient solution for petunias. All you need is a banana and water. Chop a fresh banana peel into smaller pieces and pour about 1 litre of warm, but not hot, water over it. Leave it to soak for a few days.
Then, remove the fruit remnants and dilute the resulting solution with fresh water in a 1:1 ratio. Water your petunias with this nutrient solution.
