Growing Petchoa

Latin Name Pronunciation:  pet-ko'uh

Combining the best of both worlds, this cross of a Petunia and a Calibrachoa has the Petunia's vigorous, trailing growth and tolerance for hot and cold weather and the Calibrachoa's generous bloom without the stickiness of Petunias. Petchoas are easy-care annuals (perennial in zones 10-11) that require no deadheading and bloom from spring until frost.

Petchoa grows best in full sun and moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. It is grown as annuals with prolific flowering from summer until frost, often utilized in containers and hanging baskets. Plants require regular watering to prevent them from wilting, but soil should not be soggy. During hot, dry summers, containers may need to be watered daily. When planted in the ground, plants benefit from organic matter, such as compost. Fertilize weekly for optimal flowering. Petchoa plants do not require deadheading, as they are self-cleaning, and plants only need to be pinched if you desire a more compact growth habit. They have the added attraction of the flowers not being sticky like those of Petunias. Perennial in zones 10-11.

For information on planting and care of annuals, click Annuals.