Unleash a cascade of vibrant color with Calibrachoa, affectionately known as "Million Bells" due to its astonishing abundance of small, trumpet-shaped flowers. These cheerful blooms, resembling miniature petunias, burst forth in a dazzling array of hues – from bright yellows and oranges to rich purples, reds, and soft pastels. Perfect for hanging baskets, patio containers, or as a vibrant spiller in garden beds, Calibrachoa offers continuous bloom from spring until the first frosts, bringing undeniable charm and energy to any outdoor setting.
Plant Placement Area:
Full sun to partial shade: Thrives with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for the most prolific blooms. In very hot climates, a little afternoon shade can be beneficial.
Containers, hanging baskets, or borders: Its trailing habit makes it ideal for overflowing pots, window boxes, and hanging baskets. Can also be used as a vibrant groundcover or border plant.
Good air circulation: Appreciates air movement to help prevent fungal issues.
Benefits:
Prolific and continuous blooms: Adorns your space with hundreds of flowers from spring right through autumn.
Vibrant colour range: Available in almost every colour imaginable, allowing for endless creative combinations.
Self-cleaning: No need to deadhead spent flowers; they naturally drop off, making it very low-maintenance.
Attracts pollinators: The trumpet-shaped flowers are a magnet for hummingbirds and butterflies.
Heat and drought tolerant: Once established, it can withstand periods of warmer weather and drier soil better than many other annuals.
Watering Tips:
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged: Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry to the touch. In hot, sunny weather, this might mean daily watering, especially for container plants.
Ensure excellent drainage: Calibrachoa is very sensitive to "wet feet" (roots sitting in soggy soil), which can lead to root rot. Always use pots with drainage holes.
Water at the base: Try to water the soil directly rather than wetting the foliage, especially in the evening, to reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
Care Tips:
Fertilize regularly: Calibrachoa are heavy feeders. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 1-2 weeks throughout the growing season (spring to autumn) to encourage continuous blooming. Alternatively, incorporate a slow-release granular fertilizer at planting.
Well-draining potting mix: Use a high-quality, well-draining potting mix for containers.
Occasional trimming (optional): While self-cleaning, you can lightly trim back straggly stems mid-season to encourage bushier growth and a fresh flush of blooms if the plant starts to look leggy.
Monitor for pests: Keep an eye out for aphids, which can sometimes affect Calibrachoa.
Winter care (in mild climates): In frost-free zones (USDA 9-11), it can be a perennial, but it's typically grown as an annual in most climates.
Light Level:
Full Sun: Essential for the most abundant flowering. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Partial Shade: Can tolerate some partial shade, especially in hotter climates, but flowering may be reduced.
Avoid Deep Shade: Will result in sparse blooms and leggy growth.
Toxicity:
Non-toxic: Calibrachoa is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. However, as with any plant, it's always best to discourage ingestion of large quantities.
Plant Characteristics:
Value: Prolific Bloomer, Trailing Habit, Self-Cleaning, Vibrant Colors, Trumpet-Shaped Flowers
Class:
Value: Flowering Annual, Container Plant, Hanging Basket Plant
Suitable Space:
Value: Patio, Balcony, Garden Bed (as a spiller), Window Box, Hanging Basket
Sunlight:
Value: Full Sun, Partial Shade
Tag:
Value: Outdoor Plant, Easy Care, Long Blooming, Pollinator Friendly, Colourful, Patio Plant
Section Title Description
Copyright © 2024, Naz Plant & Flowers Ltd, All Right Reserved.
