Wave Petunias
If you’re looking for a versatile and colorful flower to add to your garden or containers, look no further than Wave Petunias.
Wave petunias come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them a popular choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the different types of wave petunias available and why you should consider adding them to your garden.
If you have followed me here or on my YouTube channel you know I prefer Wave Petunias to many others. But regular petunias (ones that do not spread as far) also have their place in my containers and garden beds.
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What are Wave Petunias?
Wave petunias are a type of petunia that was first introduced in the 1990s. They were developed by PanAmerican Seed Company in collaboration with a Japanese company named Kirin Brewery.
Wave petunias are known for their cascading growth habit, which makes them perfect for hanging baskets, window boxes, and other containers.
One of the most notable features of wave petunias is their ability to spread out and cover a large area. They can grow up to 4 feet wide and 2 feet tall, making them an excellent choice for ground cover in a garden bed.
They are also known for their durability and ability to thrive in a variety of growing conditions.
Different Types of Wave Petunias
There are several types of wave petunias available, each with its unique characteristics. Here are some of the most popular varieties:
Easy Wave
Easy wave petunias are a low-maintenance variety that is perfect for beginners. They are the most versatile, and their growth habit makes them perfect for in the ground, containers, and hanging baskets.
They tolerate heat and cooler night conditions and grow a bit more mounded than the original.
Easy wave petunias come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, white, and red. There are also some bi-colors.
Tidal Wave
Tidal wave petunias are known for their large blooms and fast growth rate. They can grow up to 3 feet tall and 4 feet wide, making them perfect for filling in large spaces.
They’re the biggest and most vigorous in the Wave Petunia family with fantastic recovery from rain.
How far they spread and how high they get is determined by how closely plants are spaced – the closer the spacing, the taller the plants.
I grew Tidal Wave Silver and it grew up and over other plants like some tall daisies, a rose, and more. These things are great for growing over a wall you wish to disguise!
Tidal wave petunias are available in several colors, including pink, purple, and silver.
Shock Wave
Shock wave petunias are a variety that features petite flowers and a more subdued nature.
They spill over the sides of container groupings without overpowering the other plants.
They are smaller than other wave petunias, making them an excellent choice for borders or edging.
Shock wave petunias are perfect for gardeners with a smaller space and come in several decorator color combinations.
This year I am growing Tye Dye and Denim Shockwave petunias. I started them from seed!
Double Wave Petunias
Double-wave petunias are a type of wave petunia that produces double blooms. They are perfect for adding texture and depth to your garden. Double wave petunias come in several colors, including pink, purple, bi-colors, and red.
Note: Sadly, Wave Petunias stopped carrying the Double Wave but there are other double-flowering petunias available at most garden centers and nurseries.
I grew these double petunias from seed and used them as border edging. They did great and it was one plant the gophers left alone!
Wave Velour
Wave velour petunias are a unique variety that features blooms with a velvety texture. They are perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden or containers. Wave velour petunias are also known for their disease resistance, making them a durable choice for your garden.
They are now listed under the Easy Wave category and grow likewise.
How to Grow Wave Petunias
Growing these petunias is easy, even for beginners. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Choose the right location: Wave petunias do best in full sun, but they can also tolerate partial shade. Make sure the location you choose receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
- Prepare the soil: Wave petunias prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, you may want to add compost or other organic material to improve drainage and fertility.
- Plant your petunias: If you’re growing wave petunias in containers or hanging baskets, choose a high-quality potting mix that is designed for container gardening.
Use only two or three plants per 12 inch pot. Don’t overcrowd them!
If you’re planting them directly in the ground, space them about 12 inches apart and plant them at the same depth as their nursery pots. - Water regularly: Petunias need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water them deeply at least once a week.
If they are in containers it will need to be done more often. Actually, timing will depend on the weather and how fast they dry out.
I like to use a moisture meter, they are inexpensive and can give you an idea of how wet the soil is deeper into the pot. - Fertilize weekly: Wave petunias do require a lot of feeding, they need it as they are pushing out blooms like crazy.
When you plant them in containers using a high-quality potting soil it usually has enough good stuff in it to act as a slow-release feed but you will need to add a liquid feed weekly during the height of the growing season.
This is my favorite organic liquid plant food. It feeds not only the plant but also the soil!
If you are using a more economical type potting soil and are not sure of its nutrient value then adding a cup of worm castings per gallon of soil is recommended.
There are other granular organic feeds you could use also, Espoma Plant Tone, EB Stone Organics, or any good quality you can find at your local nursery.
Why You Want to Grow Wave Petunias
Versatility
Wave petunias are one of the most versatile flowers you can grow. They can be grown in containers, hanging baskets, or directly in the ground.
The cascading growth habit of some varieties makes them perfect for covering large areas, while their compact size compatriots make them a great choice for smaller spaces.
Low Maintenance
Wave petunias are known for their low maintenance requirements.
They are easy to grow and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. They do well in full sun or partial shade and only require regular watering and weekly feeding.
Colorful
One of the most significant benefits of growing wave petunias is their color. They come in a wide range of colors, including pink, purple, white, and red.
You can mix and match different colors to create a vibrant and eye-catching garden or container display.
Their colorful blooms can last from spring through fall, providing a long-lasting source of beauty in your garden.
Disease Resistance
Wave petunias are known for their disease resistance, which means they are less likely to be affected by common garden diseases.
This makes them a durable choice for gardens across the country, and you can enjoy their blooms without worrying about disease or pest problems.
Attract Pollinators
Wave petunias are also known for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
By planting these petunias in your garden, you can help support local pollinator populations and create a more vibrant and diverse ecosystem in your backyard.
Wave petunias are versatile and colorful flowers that can add beauty and interest to any garden or container display.
With their cascading growth habit, low maintenance requirements, disease resistance, and ability to attract pollinators, wave petunias are an excellent choice for both experienced and novice gardeners.
By choosing the right variety and following these tips for growing wave petunias, you can enjoy their vibrant blooms and add a touch of beauty to your backyard.
Some ask if Wave Petunias are better than Proven Winners Supertunias. That is a valid question and opinions vary.
In my experience the Wave Petunias do better in my conditions, the Supertunias I have grown don’t do well until late August and I want petunias blooming all summer long.
I believe it may be because of our cool summer nights. My friend, who lives in an area that has warmer nighttime temperatures do great with Supertunias.
Another thing I love about Wave Petunias is I can grow them from seed and thus save money in the long run.
