When November frosts destroy the last flowers, do not rush to say goodbye to petunias. Drastic pruning will allow you to preserve the uterine bushes until spring, so that in the new season they will again delight you with caps of flowers. This method is especially valuable for rare varieties that are a pity to lose.
Wintering technique for petunias:
- Wait for stable frosts down to -3…-5°C. Usually this is the second half of November.
- Use pruning shears to remove all shoots, leaving stumps 3-5 cm high. Do not spare the branches; in the spring, new powerful shoots will emerge from the roots.
- Carefully dig up the bushes with a lump of earth, place them in pots and transfer them to the basement or to an insulated loggia.
Conditions for successful wintering:
- Temperature: +5…+10°C;
- Lighting: not required;
- Watering: once every 3-4 weeks;
- Fertilizing: completely eliminate.
In March, move the pots to a bright room, increase watering and feed with nitrogen fertilizer. After 2-3 weeks, young shoots will appear, ready for cuttings or flowering.
What to do if the plant starts to grow in winter?
Move to a cooler place.
Is it possible to leave petunias in open ground?
Only in the southern regions with agrofibre covering.
How to avoid mold during wintering?
Ventilate the room regularly and do not over-humidify.
This wintering method will be especially appreciated by lovers of double and hanging varieties, which are difficult to grow from seeds.
