Do Wave Petunias Need to Be Pinched?

Differences

• Old-fashioned petunias had to be pinched back to prevent legginess. This method of pruning involves breaking off several inches of new growth with the thumb and forefinger. Wave petunias don't require pinching back. It isn't necessary to deadhead, or remove spent blooms, from Wave petunias, either. They will bloom all summer of their own accord. Trim them back by one-fourth in July if they start to look spindly. This rejuvenates the plant and promotes new leaves and flowers.

Care

• Wave petunias are summer annuals that perform best in containers. Because they mound and trail, they're ideal for hanging baskets, tall pots and window boxes. Plant them in full sun in loose, well-drained, fertile soil. Feed twice a month with water-soluble fertilizer. Water them in the morning, allowing the foliage and soil to dry out before nightfall.

Qualities

• A single Wave petunia plant can spread 4 feet or more. The flowers are 2 to 3 inches across and attract hummingbirds and butterflies with their tubular shape. Purple was the first color to be developed. Now these nonstop bloomers come in blue, pink, lilac, lavender and even bi-color varieties.

Types

• There are several types of petunias in the Wave series. They are Wave, Shock Wave, Tidal Wave, Easy Wave and Double Wave. Wave is the lowest-growing variety. Easy Wave and Shock Wave are more mounded in form with a more controlled spread. Tidal Wave is the largest type and will grow into a hedge. Double Wave is a frilly type of petunia with double flowers.