Gardeners are moving away from petunias: instead, they are choosing the more resilient and impressive foam flower
Gardeners in Lithuania are shifting from petunias to foam flowers due to their resilience and low maintenance requirements.
Lithuanian gardeners are increasingly preferring foam flowers over traditional petunias for their gardens. The foam flower is celebrated for its ability to thrive with minimal care, such as less frequent watering, reduced fertilization needs, and limited pruning requirements. This plant flourishes in both sunny and partially shaded locations, demonstrating excellent drought resistance and adaptability to variable weather conditions, producing a profusion of flowers from early summer in white, pink, or lilac hues that cascade beautifully.
Foam flowers are particularly suitable for various garden settings, including hanging baskets, balcony containers, flower beds, and alpine gardens. The process of growing foam flowers from seeds is straightforward and does not demand specialized gardening skills. Seed sowing can occur indoors in March or directly in the ground in May, with simple soil preparation and minimal tending required. This ease of cultivation makes foam flowers an appealing option for both novice and experienced gardeners alike.
In contrast to petunias, which require constant attention, such as regular feeding, shaping, and rain protection, foam flowers satisfy with minimal maintenance demands, making them a more practical choice for gardeners seeking both beauty and sustainability. This shift may reflect a broader trend in gardening towards plants that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally friendly and easier to care for, aligning well with contemporary gardening practices in Lithuania.