Petunias And Calibracoa In Containers Are Drying Up

Question From: Littleton, Colorado, United States
Q: I planted petunias and calibracoa in many containers this summer. It has been extremely hot and dry but containers are watered regularly. Today the plant might look stressed--tomorrow it is absolutely dead. Dried up--looks like it was hit by lightening. It's happened to 10/15 of my plants in different containers in areas miles apart. Can you help?

A: If you are fertilizing with chemicals, such as Miracle Gro, that contains murate of potash, in hot weather the roots of the plants may have been burned. Also, regular watering for these thirsty plants may mean twice a day in 90 plus degree weather. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy.