Petunias problem - Ask Extension
My petunias are developing malformed in one of my 7 planters. The plants aren't loosing leaves and it appears to only affect the flowers. I had this p...
Knowledgebase
Petunias problem #906498
Asked June 19, 2025, 9:42 PM EDT
My petunias are developing malformed in one of my 7 planters. The plants aren't loosing leaves and it appears to only affect the flowers. I had this problem late in the summer last year and a local master gardener told me it was just because they were done blooming for the season. Since they are doing it again, I think it's safe to say thats not the issue. The dianthus, bacopa and Dusty Miller in the pot seem fine. The Nicotainia also looks to be suffering the same condition as the petunias. The planter is a whiskey barrel. Any suggestions?
Stevens County Minnesota
Expert Response
Aster Yellows is a possible disease. See these web pages.
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/aster-yellows
https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/annualperennial/petunia/flowersdiscolored.html
https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/annualperennial/petunia/leavesblotchesorspots.html
Submitting a sample to the Plant Disease Clinic for a fee would give you a definate diagnosis. https://pdc.umn.edu/
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/aster-yellows
https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/annualperennial/petunia/flowersdiscolored.html
https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/annualperennial/petunia/leavesblotchesorspots.html
Submitting a sample to the Plant Disease Clinic for a fee would give you a definate diagnosis. https://pdc.umn.edu/