petunias

Along with the produce we sell at the farm, we also have a lot of hanging baskets of petunias. Oh my gosh, catch the wind just right and their scent fills the air. Or take a walk past them and breathe in their fragrance. Petunias are a happy flower, too. Their many cheerful colors and sizes, their trumpet-shaped blooms, and their unending charm brings smiles to those who walk past. 

Petunias are native to South America. The first petunia varieties were introduced to European gardens in the early 1800s, where they quickly became popular due to their vibrant colors and ease of cultivation. Since then, they’ve spread across the globe, with new hybrids and colors emerging, making petunias one of the most widely grown and beloved flowers in both gardens and floral arrangements today.

In Europe, the petunia is seen as a flower that offers protection. It’s believed that petunias placed near windows or doorways can guard against negative energy, warding off bad spirits and misfortune. In the U.S., petunias are often considered a symbol of community and friendship. They are hardy in nature and are frequently used in public parks and gardens, creating spaces where people can gather and connect with nature.

Amid the complexity of life, petunias remind me of the beauty in simplicity. Their uncomplicated care requirements and stunning displays serve as a reminder that sometimes, less is truly more. A gentle to stop and smell the roses...I mean petunias.