How to grow Petunia in the UK
Petunia x hybrida
Petunia (Petunia x hybrida) is a flower that grows well in UK gardens. Container classic. Surfinias and Million Bells don't need deadheading. This guide covers when and how to sow Petunia, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
Type
Flowers
Difficulty
Easy — good for beginners
Position
full sun (6+ hrs direct)
Sow
spring
Harvest
—
When to sow & grow Petunia
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May Plant | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Any reasonable, moisture-retentive but free-draining soil
- Soil pH
- 6.0–7.5
- Position
- Full sun for most; some tolerate light shade
- Sowing depth
- Surface to 1 cm (check light requirement)
- Spacing
- 15–30 cm apart
- Sowing
- Sow under cover late winter–spring, or direct after the last frost
- Growing
- Water regularly; pinch tips for bushier plants
- Harvest & upkeep
- Deadhead often to prolong flowering
- Watch for
- Slugs and snails on seedlings; aphids on soft growth
Companion planting for Petunia
No specific companion notes for this plant.
Grow Petunia this year
Add Petunia to your free 12-month plan and get watering & sowing reminders — no sign-up needed.
Petunia FAQs
How much sun does Petunia need?
Petunia prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
Is Petunia easy to grow?
Easy — good for beginners. Container classic. Surfinias and Million Bells don't need deadheading.