All You Need to Know About Planting and Growing Calibrachoa (Million Bells) in Your Garden

Calibrachoa plants, also known as Million Bells® or Super Bells®, are delightful additions to any garden. With their mini petunia-like appearance, colorful flowers, and trailing habit, these plants are perfect for adding a pop of color to your outdoor space. In addition to being visually appealing, calibrachoas attract pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds, making them a great choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

What Is Calibrachoa?

Calibrachoas are members of the Solanum family, originating from Brazil. They have small, funnel-shaped flowers and sticky leaves, similar to petunias. These plants have a trailing habit, making them perfect for containers, hanging baskets, and under taller plants in the garden. Although calibrachoas are typically grown as annuals in most regions, they can act as short-lived perennials in warm climates.

Cultivation and History

Calibrachoas have been around since the late 1980s and have gained popularity, especially since the introduction of Million Bells® in the early 1990s. They prefer well-drained soil and slightly acidic conditions. In terms of propagation, calibrachoas can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or purchased as plugs from garden centers.

Calibrachoa Plant Propagation

From Seed: Hybrid varieties won’t grow true from seed, so it’s best to buy them as plants or take cuttings. Sow seeds in early spring in a warm, sunny location, and protect seedlings from frost.
From Cuttings: Select a piece without flowers to take a cutting, and place it in water until roots form. Pot up the cutting once roots are established.
From Seedlings/Transplanting: Transplant seedlings into individual pots and harden them off before planting them in the garden.

How to Grow Million Bell Flowers

Calibrachoas thrive in well-drained soil and full sunlight, although they can tolerate varying conditions. They do well in pots, hanging baskets, and raised beds, as long as the soil is moist but well-drained. It’s essential to provide regular watering, especially during hot weather, and fertilize the plants with a balanced product for acid-loving plants.

Growing Tips

Grow calibrachoas in full sun or partial shade.
Ensure they are planted in well-drained soil.
Consider growing them in pots if your soil lacks drainage.

Pruning and Maintenance

While calibrachoas are self-cleaning plants, you can deadhead them if needed. They may require pruning towards the end of the summer to maintain their appearance. Propagating calibrachoas from seeds is possible by collecting seeds from existing plants and storing them for the following year.

Calibrachoa Cultivars to Select

With a wide range of colors and patterns available, choosing a calibrachoa variety is more about personal preference than environmental requirements. Some popular options include:

Superbells® ‘Coral Sun’: A salmon pink variety with a yellow center.
Superbells® ‘Blue’: A deep purple variety with a yellow center.
Superbells® ‘Tropical Sunrise’: Yellow and red striped flowers.
Superbells® Rising Star™: Bright pink with a yellow star-shaped pattern.
Million Bells® ‘Trailing Blue’: A pale purple cultivar with a yellow center.
Bumble Bee Orange: Tangerine-orange blossoms with deep red centers.

Managing Pests and Disease

While calibrachoas are relatively low-maintenance plants, they may be affected by pests such as aphids, thrips, and tobacco budworms. Regular inspection and appropriate control measures are necessary to prevent significant damage. In terms of diseases, calibrachoas may suffer from black rot and interveinal chlorosis, both of which can be mitigated through proper soil management and care.

Best Uses for Million Bell Flowers

Calibrachoas are versatile plants that are suitable for containers, hanging baskets, and raised beds. With their wide array of colors and adaptability to different conditions, they are excellent choices for adding vibrancy to your garden. Additionally, these plants are known to attract butterflies and hummingbirds, contributing to a more vibrant ecosystem in your outdoor space.

Quick Reference Growing Guide

Plant Type: Tender, short-lived perennial (mostly grown as an annual)
Flower / Foliage Color: All colors except true blue/mid-green
Native to: South America
Hardiness (USDA Zone): 9-11
Exposure: Full sun-part shade
Time to Maturity: 3 months
Height: 6-12 inches
Spread: 12-18 inches
Water Needs: Moderate-high
Common Pests and Diseases: Aphids, thrips, tobacco budworms; black rot, interveinal chlorosis

Celebrating Calibrachoa

Calibrachoas are fantastic plants that are easy to grow, vibrant, and visually appealing. Their versatility and low-maintenance nature make them a popular choice for many gardeners. With numerous cultivars available, you can experiment with different colors and patterns to create a beautiful display in your garden.

In conclusion, calibrachoas are excellent choices for adding color and life to your outdoor space. With proper care and a little creativity, you can enjoy these charming plants and attract wildlife to your garden. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, calibrachoas are a fun addition to any garden. So, why not give them a try and experience the joy of growing these lovely Million Bells® in your own backyard!