Insects

• Petunias are relatively pest-free. They may fall prey to common insects such as aphids, thrips and whiteflies. Watch for leaf damage and look under leaves for tiny insect clusters. Earwigs live in the ground and under decaying leaves. They feed on plants and return to dark, damp hideouts. Insects can be controlled by spraying or dusting with insecticide.
  
  

Slugs

• Slugs hide at the base or under the spreading leaves of petunia plants. They typically feed at night and leave telltale slime trails on and around the petunias. Control slugs or snails with baits scattered lightly under the foliage.
  
  

Rabbits

• Rabbits and other rodents munch on petunias. They leave a sharp-cut stem, usually at a 45-degree angle. Solutions include fencing out rabbits or using wildlife repellents.