Petunias may not last long in pots than in the garden soil, but you can easily move them out of harm!
Hardy Petunia varieties like Supertunias and Wave Petunias can survive winter as perennials. Meanwhile, chilling frost can kill some non-hardy varieties like Grandiflora.
So, dig into this entire article to know if Petunias last longer in pots and how to make them last longer.
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Are Petunias Annuals or Perennials?
Technically, Petunias can survive for several years as tender perennials in the hotter zones where winter isn’t too cold.
In hotter zones like zone 10 and 11, they can live for 2-3 years if you save them from the colder nights.
However, in zone 7-9, Petunias behave like annuals and survive only till fall, as the first frost kills them.
Moreover, in colder zones below 7, it’s hard for this plant to survive due to chilling temperatures.
Thus, if you belong to Zone 6 and below, growing Petunias indoors in pots or hanging baskets will be the best idea.
Also, you must plant a new Petunia seedling yearly if you wish to grow them every year, either potted or on the ground.
How Long Do Petunias Last In Pots?
Basically, Petunias can survive well in pots and on the ground if you take care of their warm temperature demands.
However, this plant can grow well and last longer in the ground than in the pots due to the large space. Also, root rot is less likely to color on the ground.
But, Petunias on the ground need high maintenance than those on the pots as you need to water and feed them frequently.
Additionally, Petunias in pots survive for months in the colder zones below 7, as it’s easy to take care of their optimal growing conditions.
Thus, hardiness zones, climate, and the care you provide them play vital roles in the lifespan of your potted Petunias.
How to Make Petunias Last Longer?
Petunias need regular watering whenever the soil feels dry, and you must water them more often during summer times.
Ensure to take care of the following guides to keep your Petunias alive in a pot or hanging baskets all year long, even in colder zones.
- Grow Petunia in a terracotta container with enough drainage holes and soil rich in organic matter.
- Use a moisture meter to water properly, as incorrect watering can decrease Petunia’s lifespan.
- Feed the plants with balanced liquid fertilizer monthly during the growing season for proper development.
- Place your Petunia in an area receiving at least 6 hours of full sunlight daily or on south-facing windows.
- Shift the Petunia plant indoors before the first frost, or use frost blankets to avoid freezing temperatures.
- You can also use incandescent lights to provide warmth and light during cold winter.
- Prune the Petunias regularly and Deadhead the spent flowers to enhance flowering and lush growth.
- Use suitable pesticides, fungicides, or neem oil to prevent disease or pest invasion.
From Editorial Team
Combine These Plants With Perunias In Pot!
Combining Petunias with other flowers in a single pot will bless you with attractive color blends for enhancing aesthetics.
Marigolds, Assylum, Verbena, Lobelia, Calibrachoa, etc., have similar growth requirements to Petunia and are the best companion plants.
