Petunia ~ Laura Bush Petunia~FLOWERS SEED

Petunia 'Laura Bush' is a celebrated heirloom old-fashioned petunia — the offspring of the wild Petunia violacea — and a true garden workhorse. More cold-tolerant, disease-resistant, and heat-tolerant than modern hybrids, this reseeding annual produces a profusion of deep lavender, medium-sized bell-shaped flowers on spreading, low-growing plants. Twice the bloom size of its parent with larger, darker green foliage that serves as a lush backdrop for the spectacular floral display. Ideal for beds, hanging baskets, and container barrels. Space transplants 12 inches apart.

Plant Highlights

• Deep lavender blooms — medium-sized; twice the size of the parent wild petunia
• Low, spreading habit; vigorous and free-blooming all season
• More cold-tolerant, disease-resistant, and heat-tolerant than modern hybrids
• Reseeding annual — returns naturally in subsequent seasons
• Excellent in beds, hanging baskets, and large containers

Growing Guide

Starting indoors: Sow 10–12 weeks before last frost. Petunia seeds are extremely tiny — press gently onto the soil surface without covering; keep the soil consistently wet for best germination. Placing trays on top of a refrigerator provides consistent warmth that improves germination. Light is required.

Transplanting: Five or six weeks after sowing, transplant seedlings into 3-inch pots. Grow on in cooler temperatures with plenty of light. Harden young plants for 10–14 days before planting outdoors after last frost. Pinch seedlings back at planting to encourage branching.

Site and soil: Full sun; well-drained, fertile soil. Space 12 inches apart.

Planting Specs

• Type: Annual (reseeding)
• Habit: Low, spreading
• Bloom color: Deep lavender
• Light: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, fertile
• Germ notes: Surface sow; light required; keep soil consistently wet until germination
• Spacing: 12 inches