Petunia
Scientific name: Petunia spp.
☘️ Toxicity: Non-toxic to cats
☀️ Ideal light: Full sun to partial shade (minimum 4–6 hours of light)
💧 Watering: Regular; prefers moist soil without waterlogging
A classic flowering plant for beds and containers, the Petunia offers a wide range of colors and growth forms, from upright to trailing. Beyond its beauty, it’s safe for cats, making it an excellent option for pet-friendly homes and gardens.
Essential care
- Light: The more sunlight it receives, the more it blooms; in extreme heat, protect from midday sun.
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist but never soggy.
- Substrate: Fertile and well-draining (organic soil mixed with perlite or coarse sand).
- Fertilization: Rich in phosphorus and potassium for continuous flowering (apply every two weeks in season).
- Maintenance: Remove spent flowers and pinch back tips to promote new buds and compact growth.
Pests and how to handle them
- Aphids and thrips: Inspect regularly; treat with diluted mild soap or neem oil.
- Gray mold (botrytis): Reduce leaf wetness, improve air circulation, and remove affected tissues.
- Slugs/snails (in garden beds): Use physical barriers or traps to control them.
Propagation
- Seeds: Extremely fine; sow on the surface and keep under high light for germination.
- Cuttings: Recommended for cultivars to preserve identical characteristics.
Cat safety
- Classification: Non-toxic to felines.
- Best practices: Avoid systemic pesticides; prefer mechanical and biological pest control.
💡 There are hybrid series bred for improved rain and heat resistance — perfect for hanging baskets and outdoor displays.
Frequently asked questions
- Does it stop flowering in summer? Possibly due to heat stress or lack of nutrients; provide partial shade and adjust fertilization.
- Why does it look “leggy”? Caused by insufficient light or lack of pruning; pinch tips and increase sunlight exposure.
Quick checklist
- ☀️ 4–6 h of sunlight (minimum)
- 💧 Consistent moisture (avoid waterlogging)
- 🪴 Fertile, well-draining soil
- 🧪 Regular fertilization for flowering
- 🐾 Safe for cats