Petunia Wilt: The Overwatering Diagnosis

Petunias are made to dry out. Wilting despite moist soil = classic overwatering. Rotting roots can't absorb water, so tops wilt while soil is wet.

The Fix

Stop watering. Only water when soil is DRY. Repeat: only when dry. This is the #1 petunia killer, perfectly described in your question.

Why This Happens

• Petunias evolved in dry climates
• Constant moisture suffocates roots
• Fungal pathogens thrive in wet soil
• Slugs are secondary, not primary cause

Safer's soap causing mildew confirms excessive moisture. Let pots dry completely between waterings. Petunias recover fast from drought; they rarely recover from rot.