Vigorous breeding efforts have created an astounding array of sizes, forms and colors. Petal edges can be frilled, fluffy, fluted or straight and simple. Petunias do best on the southeast side of your home where they receive afternoon shade. The blooms bleach out and stems become leggy when exposed to the harsh sun from the southwest. Brilliant color is the hallmark of the marigold.
Marigolds come in all shapes and sizes.
The French marigold, a compact, bushy variety, bears masses of flowers. On the other hand, the American marigold stands up to 36 inches. The tall-stemmed blooms work well in the rear of a flower bed and make good cut flowers. Breeders crossed the American and French Marigolds. What they came up with was a sterile triploid or mule marigold.