Petunia flowers seed, Fire Chief, Fragrant, Groundcover

Petunia 'Fire Chief' is a genuine piece of gardening history — an All-America Selections winner in 1950 and the first true red petunia ever introduced. Bred by Bodger Seed Company of Lompoc, California, 'Fire Chief' is a multiflora type with a bushy, compact growth form and an extraordinary abundance of blooms. Unlike modern petunia varieties, the deep red flowers are sweetly scented, fading gracefully to a soft rose-red as they mature. Irresistible to butterflies and hummingbirds. Approx. 226,813 seeds per oz.

Plant Highlights

• 1950 All-America Selections winner — the original true red petunia
• Fragrant deep red blooms — fade to soft rose-red; unlike scentless modern varieties
• Bushy, compact multiflora type — extremely free-flowering all season
• Grows 10 inches tall; excellent in containers, hanging baskets, beds, and borders
• Irresistible to butterflies and hummingbirds
• Pairs beautifully with verbena, marigold, zinnia, and geranium

Growing Guide

Starting indoors: Sow 10–12 weeks before planting out. Seeds are extremely tiny — press gently onto the soil surface without covering; light is required for germination. Keep soil consistently wet for best results. Placing trays on top of a refrigerator provides steady warmth that improves germination.

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

Ongoing care: Deadhead regularly; shear plants back mid-season to rejuvenate growth and extend bloom. As heavy feeders, petunias benefit from regular applications of a balanced liquid fertilizer.

Site and soil: Full sun to partial shade; rich, well-drained soil. Space 9–12 inches apart.

Planting Specs

• Type: Annual
• USDA Zones: 3–8
• Height: 10 inches
• Bloom season: Late spring through fall
• Bloom color: Deep red fading to soft rose-red
• Fragrant: Yes
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Rich, well-drained
• Germ temp: 72–76°F | Avg. germ time: 7–14 days
• Planting depth: Surface sow; press into soil, do not cover
• Sowing rate: 2–3 seeds per plant
• Spacing: 9–12 inches