Petunia – 4700 seeds – AAA – Thai

Germination Time: Under optimal conditions, petunia seeds typically germinate within 7 to 18 days.

Light Requirement for Seed Germination: Petunia seeds require light to germinate. After sowing, do not cover them with soil; instead, press them lightly onto the soil surface to ensure light exposure.

Seed to Bloom Time: Petunias are primarily grown for their flowers and typically begin blooming about 08 to 12 weeks after sowing. Regular deadheading can encourage continuous blooming throughout the growing season.

Plant Height: Depending on the variety, petunias can grow to heights ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 feet. Spreading types may have a more prostrate growth habit.

Plant Spacing for Commercial Farming: For optimal growth in commercial settings, space petunia plants approximately 0.5 to 0.67 feet apart (6 to 8 inches). Crowded cultivation can promote longer stem length.

Container Size for Rooftop Gardening: Each petunia plant thrives in a container with a diameter of 10 to 12 inches, which equates to a volume of about 5 to 7 liters. This size provides adequate space for root development and ensures optimal growth.

Soil Requirements: Petunias prefer light, fertile, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be well-draining to prevent root rot. Incorporating organic matter, such as compost, can enhance soil fertility and structure.

1. Types of Organic Fertilizers: To support healthy growth, consider using the following organic fertilizers:
   • Compost: Provides a balanced nutrient profile and improves soil structure.
   • Well-Rotted Manure: Offers essential nutrients and enhances soil fertility.
   • Fish Emulsion: A rich source of nitrogen, promoting leafy growth.
   • Bone Meal: High in phosphorus, supporting root development and flowering.
   • Seaweed Extract: Supplies trace minerals and stimulates plant growth.

Watering Requirement for Container Gardening: Maintain consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Watering needs can vary based on environmental conditions, but generally, watering when the top inch of soil feels dry is advisable. Ensure containers have drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.

Daily Sunlight Requirement: Petunias thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Adequate sunlight promotes robust growth and abundant flowering.

Essential Nutrients and Organic Fertilizers: Key nutrients for petunias include:

• • Nitrogen (N): Promotes leafy growth.
  • Phosphorus (P): Supports root development and flowering.
  • Potassium (K): Enhances overall plant health and disease resistance.

While specific percentage requirements can vary, a balanced fertilizer ratio (e.g., 10-10-10) is often suitable. Organic fertilizers containing these nutrients include compost, bone meal (high in phosphorus), and fish emulsion (rich in nitrogen).

Application of Organic Fertilizer in Containers: Incorporate 100 to 150 grams of compost or well-rotted manure into the potting mix before planting. Additionally, apply a liquid organic fertilizer, such as fish emulsion, every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season, following the manufacturer’s recommended dilution rates.

Life Span: Petunias are typically grown as annuals, completing their life cycle within one growing season (approximately 3 to 4 months). In frost-free climates, they can sometimes persist as short-lived perennials.

Growing Difficulty: Petunias are relatively easy to grow, with a difficulty rating of 3 out of 10. They are suitable for both novice and experienced gardeners.

Optimum Humidity Level: Petunias prefer moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%. High humidity can increase the risk of fungal diseases, so ensuring good air circulation is beneficial.

Companion Plants: Suitable companion plants for petunias include:

• • Marigolds
  • Geraniums
  • Lobelia
  • Salvia
  • Snapdragons

These plants share similar growing conditions and can enhance garden aesthetics.

Common Diseases and Remedies:

• Botrytis Blight: Causes gray mold on flowers and leaves.
  • Remedy: Remove affected parts and improve air circulation; use organic fungicides like neem oil.
• Powdery Mildew: White, powdery patches on leaves.
  • Remedy: Apply neem oil or a mixture of baking soda and water (1 tsp per liter).
• Root Rot: Caused by waterlogged soil.
  • Remedy: Ensure proper drainage in containers; avoid overwatering.
• Leaf Spot: Brown or black spots on leaves.
  • Remedy: Remove infected leaves and apply an organic copper-based fungicide.

Pests and Prevention:

• Aphids: Small green or black insects that suck sap.
  • Prevention: Spray plants with soapy water or neem oil weekly.
• Caterpillars: Chew holes in leaves.
  • Prevention: Hand-pick caterpillars and introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
• Whiteflies: Tiny white insects that cluster under leaves.
  • Prevention: Use sticky traps and apply neem oil.
• Spider Mites: Tiny mites causing speckled leaves.
  • Prevention: Spray leaves with a water jet or neem oil.
• Thrips: Cause distorted flowers and leaves.
  • Prevention: Prune affected areas and apply organic insecticides.

Additional Care Tips:

• Deadheading: Remove faded flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming.
• Pinching: Pinch back young plants to promote bushier growth.
• Mulching: Use organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilization: Feed regularly during the blooming season with diluted organic fertilizers.
• Pest Management: Monitor plants for pests and diseases, especially during humid or rainy weather.

Best Sowing Method for Seeds:

• Use seed trays or small pots filled with light, well-draining potting soil.
• Scatter seeds lightly on the surface without covering them, as petunia seeds need light for germination.
• Mist the soil with water to maintain moisture without over-saturating.
• Cover trays with a clear plastic dome or cling wrap to retain humidity.
• Place in a warm, bright location with temperatures around 24-29°C.
• Remove the cover once seeds germinate and seedlings emerge (7–10 days).