How to Replace Petunia Flower Beds

Dampen the existing bed. Moist soil will make plant and weed removal easier.

Dig out the old petunia plants using a pitchfork or spade. Dig about 5 or 6 inches deep to get to the roots. The pitchfork makes this easy work as it will loosen all the roots. Pull the existing plants out by hand, and toss them into a bucket or directly into your compost bin if you have one.

Remove any weeds while you are taking out the old plants. Turn the soil with the spade or shovel to a depth of 10 or 12 inches. Break up any large dirt clods or clumps with your hoe or shovel. Add decomposed compost to the bed and mix it in well. Rake out the bed and shape it to your liking, either at ground level or slightly raised.

Plant your seeds or new petunia starter plants. Dig the proper depth as provided on the seed packet, or use the rake to create indentations for rows. Petunias are commonly planted quite shallow since the seeds are tiny. If you are using starter plants, squeeze them from their temporary pots and place them into an appropriate sized hole -- often about 4 to 6 inches in depth.

Water the new bed thoroughly but lightly or the small seeds may get thrown out or washed away to undesirable areas. Keep the bed moist until seeds sprout or the new plants take solid root and begin to grow and flower.

Add mulch when seedlings are several inches high and you can easily spread it under the foliage. Mulching will help preserve moisture and reduce weeds.