What should I look for when purchasing petunia plants?

Question:

What should I look for when purchasing petunia plants?

Answer:

When buying petunias, select compact, stocky plants.  Tall, spindly petunias will need to be pinched to encourage the plants to spread and take longer to develop into attractive plants.  If buying plants from a greenhouse, harden the petunias outdoors for a few days before planting in the garden.  Initially place the plants in a shady, protected location and then gradually expose them to longer periods of direct sun.