Cultivation Methods and Precautions for Petunias
As a popular competitor for window sill gardens, petunias capture countless flower enthusiasts with their brilliant colors and trailing characteristics. However, many growers report that the plants tend to grow too tall and produce few flowers, which is actually closely related to the details of daily maintenance. This article systematically sorts out the key points from soil mixing to pruning maintenance, helping you create a waterfall-like blooming landscape.
Three Basic Elements of Maintenance
Container and Substrate Configuration
It is recommended to use a terra cotta pot or root control pot with a diameter of over 25cm, with a 3cm thick layer of ceramsite at the bottom to enhance drainage. The substrate should be mixed in the ratio of peat:perlite:decomposed leaf soil = 5:3:2, with 5g of bone meal added as a base fertilizer per liter of soil.
Light, Water, and Temperature Management Techniques
Keep the plant in full sunlight (6-8 hours) during spring and autumn, and use a 30% shade net for protection in summer. The optimal growth temperature is between 18-24°C, and maintain above 8°C in winter. Use the immersion method to water the plant, water thoroughly when the surface soil is slightly dry, and adjust the pH monthly with 0.1% citric acid water.
Advanced Maintenance Strategies
Nutrition Supply Plan
Apply a balanced nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium liquid fertilizer (20-20-20) every week during the germination period, and switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer (10-30-20) during the bud formation period. After flowering, apply seaweed fertilizer to promote rejuvenation, noting the principle of applying thin and frequent fertilizers, with the EC value controlled between 1.2-1.5mS/cm.
Shaping Control Techniques
Pinch the tips of the seedlings for the first time when they have 5 true leaves, leaving 3 pairs of lateral buds. When the secondary branches reach 10cm long, perform a second topping and combine with coiling around a support to shape into a spherical or waterfall form. Prune the inner branches promptly to maintain通风透光 (ventilation and light penetration) in the canopy.
Special Season Management
Build a rain shelter during the plum rain season to prevent flower rot. Spray the leaves with water early and late in the summer to cool down during high temperatures, and use grow lights to maintain light in winter. Regularly check for red spiders and aphids, and spray neem oil preventatively.
By precisely controlling the light cycle and nutrient supply, combined with scientific pruning methods, even gardening beginners can achieve flowering throughout the four seasons. It is recommended to use hanging baskets for cultivation, allowing the branches to hang naturally to form a three-dimensional flower waterfall, creating a visual focus for the balcony.