Petunia Shock Wave Seed

Pelleted seeds are coated in a clay-based material to make them larger and easier to handle during sowing, which is helpful for small petunia seeds. Untreated seeds are raw and uncoated, which some experienced gardeners prefer for organic growing practices.

Petunia seeds require light to germinate effectively. Covering them with soil can inhibit the process, so simply press them firmly into the surface of your seed-starting mix to ensure good contact without burying them.

Because these plants have a vigorous spreading habit of 30-36 inches, one or two plants are usually sufficient for a standard 12-inch hanging basket. Overcrowding can lead to poor airflow and reduced blooming, so give them enough space to cascade.

While the Shock Wave series is naturally mounded, you can encourage a denser, more uniform shape by pinching back the stems early in the season. Regular deadheading of spent blooms will also help the plant focus its energy on producing new flowers throughout the summer.

It is highly recommended to start these indoors under controlled conditions. Because they require specific soil temperatures between 70-75°F for germination and have a relatively long lead time, starting them indoors ensures they are well-established before being transplanted outside once the danger of frost has passed.