- At which location do petunias develop their optimum?
- Planting petunias on the balcony - when and in what soil?
- What should be considered when it comes to water and nutrient supply?
- Can pruning prolong flowering?
Petunias have rightly conquered a regular place among the most popular balcony plants. The subtropical summer flowers combine lavish blooms with uncomplicated demands. This guide explains how to properly care for petunias in balcony boxes.
Petunias love sun
At which location do petunias develop their optimum?
Characteristic of petunias is their preference for sunshine and an aversion to rain. On the sunny south-facing balcony, the subtropical flowers boast such a dense carpet of blossoms that the leaves are almost invisible. A partially shaded position on the west or east balcony is tolerated, but results in a less opulent appearance. Protection from the pounding rain is recommended at every location.
Planting petunias on the balcony - when and in what soil?
Planting time for petunias begins in mid-May. In the preceding 8 to 10 days, the plants should acclimatize to the semi-shady spot on the balcony during the day. As a substrate, we recommend special petunia soil with an extra portion of iron and a pH of 5.5 to 6.0.
What should be considered when it comes to water and nutrient supply?
The balanced supply of water and nutrients takes a key position in the care program of balcony petunias. This is how you water and fertilize the flowers in the box and tub correctly:
- Water petunias primarily with rainwater or stagnant tap water
- Keep the substrate constantly slightly moist
- If the potting soil dries up, there is a need for watering
- On warm summer days, if necessary, water in the early morning and again after sunset
- Add a liquid petunia fertilizer to the irrigation water weekly
To bridge the holiday season for thirsty petunias without drought stress, we recommend installing an automatic watering system.
Can pruning prolong flowering?
Daily pruning of faded blooms is a major factor in petunias tirelessly developing new buds. If that is too time-consuming, you can use pruning shears from time to time. Cut back wilted shoots and the sun's rays will revive dormant buds at the base of the shoot.
tips
In the fall, the wilted appearance of petunias belies the plants' vigor for several years. If you still have a spot free in the frost-free basement, it should be reserved as winter quarters for your busy balcony petunias. Repotted and cut back in spring, the flower festival is repeated on the balcony.