[granjan]

I bought surfinias for the first time this year.  I hate dead heading petunias as I hate the feel of them.    I understood that this wasn't necessary with the surfinias as they are sterile but I've had to do it anyway and they are producing seed.   Could it be that they were mis-labelled.  They certainly look like normal petunias.  I'm getting mixed messages from the internet and just wondered if anyone had the definitive answer.  Thank you 

[Sue33]

i've got loads of surfinia petunias, and yes, they do need dead-heading  also plenty of watering and feeding, they are lovely though aren't they 

[sunshineband]

You could try just snipping them with scissors, or wear those very thin poly gloves perhaps 

[granjan]

They certainly are lovely.  Thanks for your help.

[Broadhaven]

I have always had surfina in my hanging baskets and was fed up last year of having to keep dead heading them, so this year I have gone for million bells.

They have been brilliant, no dead heading need at all I was recommended to put 4 in a 12 inch basket but would put 5/6 in next year as they are not quiet as full as I would have liked.

[granjan]

Thanks Broadhaven.  That must be what I was thinking of.

[catllar]

Oh Granjan, I thought I was the only one who couldn't stand touching petunias!

[granjan]

Yes they're awful.  I'm not one for gloves either.  I sometimes wear a left one if there is a nettle or I'm clearing brambles at the allotment but can't bear to wear a pair.  It just doesn't feel right. 

[fatcat1955]

They will not come true from seed, only cuttings. I am sure that it use to be illegal to take cuttings from them for resale.