Learn How to Fertilize Petunias in pots or ornamental garden beds for abundant flowering throughout the season.
Many gardeners believe that petunias are heavy feeders. These plants grow rapidly, so having sufficient nutrients in the soil is crucial. This is particularly important for varieties known for their productivity and floral displays. Finding when and how to fertilize petunias for healthy growth and plenty of flowers across the summer.
This is important for petunias in ornamental beds, pots, containers, and hanging baskets.
When to Fertilize Petunias
Fertilize petunias when they growing actively. This involves blending the soil before planting and regular feeding across the summer. While most manufacturers provide special directions on application frequency. Many non-commercial and organic products should be used based on soil composition and any deficiencies in your garden beds. Experienced gardeners frequently conduct soil tests to find the needs of their bedding plants.
How Frequently to Feed Petunias
When grown in ornamental garden beds, petunias enjoy routine fertilization, but they typically require less fertilizer than those in pots. Fertilizing petunias in pots is especially important throughout their growing season, as nutrient levels deplete quickly.
Best Fertilizer for Petunias
Selection of the best fertilizer for petunias depends on many factors. When planting petunias in garden beds, amend the soil properly. Many experienced gardeners apply slow-release granular fertilizer and finished compost on petunias.
Fill the potted petunias with a good-quality potting mix. Apply water-soluble and foliar fertilizer across the summer to preserve sufficient nutrient levels for consistent flowering. Apart from that, use blood meal, fish emulsion, bone meal, and compost teas.
How to Fertilize Petunias
Proper fertilization depends largely on the type of fertilizer used. This is especially important with commercial fertilizers, which should be used strictly according to the directions. Granular fertilizers are most common and are worked directly into the soil at planting time. Granules or pellets can also be used to side-dress plants, typically later in the season, just before flowering begins.
Water-soluble fertilizers dissolve in water and are applied as foliar sprays or soil drenches. They are typically used more frequently and are known for their rapid nutrient delivery to plants.
How to Promote Flowering in Petunias
The best method to encourage blooming in petunia plants is by using a well-balanced fertilizer. Granulated fertilizers can be mixed into the garden soil at planting time to give new annuals a beneficial “quick start.” Across the season, water-soluble fertilizers should be used to sustain flower production and keep the foliage lush.