{"id":489,"date":"2023-10-21T00:22:06","date_gmt":"2023-10-21T00:22:06","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/2023\/10\/21\/million-bells\/"},"modified":"2023-10-21T00:22:06","modified_gmt":"2023-10-21T00:22:06","slug":"million-bells","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/2023\/10\/21\/million-bells\/","title":{"rendered":"Million bells"},"content":{"rendered":"

HOW TO GROW CALIBRACHOA (SUPERBELLS® AND MILLION BELLS® )<\/h1>\n

12 to 24 inches wide<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Growing Calibrachoa Million Bells: Growing Information And Calibrachoa Care<\/h2>\n

\"Multicolored<\/p>\n

While Calibrachoa million bells may be a fairly new species, this dazzling little plant is a must-have in the garden. Its name comes from the fact that it features hundreds of small, bell-like flowers that resemble miniature petunias. Its trailing habit makes it perfect for use in hanging baskets, containers or as a small area ground cover.<\/p>\n

Calibrachoa Million Bells Information<\/h2>\n

Calibrachoa, commonly called million bells or trailing petunia, is a tender perennial that produces mounds of foliage, growing only 3 to 9 inches (7.5-23 cm.) tall, along trailing stems and flowers in shades of violet, blue, pink, red, magenta, yellow, bronze and white.<\/p>\n

Introduced in the early 1990s, all cultivars of Calibrachoa are hybrids with the original species native to South America. They are prolific bloomers from spring to frost. The plant is winter hardy to USDA Zones 9-11 and is most commonly grown as an annual in cooler climates or a perennial in mild ones.<\/p>\n

Growing Calibrachoa Plants<\/h2>\n

Growing Calibrachoa million bells is easy. They prefer to be grown in moist but well-drained, organically rich soil in full sun. They do not tolerate high pH soils, though the plants will take very light shade and may tolerate some drought. In fact, plants with some shade will survive longer into the summer months, especially in warmer regions.<\/p>\n

Purchase or plant your seedlings in spring and set out after the last frost in your area.<\/p>\n

Calibrachoa Care<\/h2>\n

Caring for million bells flower is minimal. The soil should be kept fairly moist but not soggy, especially in full sun areas as they may succumb to the intense heat of summer. Container plants require more watering.<\/p>\n

Calibrachoa care includes periodic fertilizer applications in the garden, though you may need to fertilize more regularly when in a container or hanging basket.<\/p>\n

Deadheading this plant is not required, as it is considered to be self-cleaning, meaning the spent flowers readily drop following bloom. You can, however, pinch Calibrachoa back regularly to encourage a more compact growth habit.<\/p>\n

Calibrachoa Propagation<\/h2>\n

These plants produce little seed, if any, and must be vegetatively propagated. However, most of these hybrid cultivars are patented (trademark of the Suntory company), which prohibits Calibrachoa propagation in commercial markets. You can, however, propagate your own plants for personal use through cuttings that are overwintered indoors.<\/p>\n

Try to find a stem that has small buds but no flowers on it. Cut this stem off at least 6 inches (15 cm.) from the tip, removing any lower leaves. Place your cuttings in an equal mix of half potting soil and half peat moss. Water well.<\/p>\n

Keep the cuttings moist and warm (about 70 F. (21 C.), placing your future million bells flower in bright light. Roots should begin to develop within a couple weeks.<\/p>\n

HOW TO GROW CALIBRACHOA (SUPERBELLS® AND MILLION BELLS®)<\/h2>\n

\"Calibrachoa\"<\/p>\n

Calibrachoa make excellent container plants. Pictured: Superbells\u00ae Pomegrante Punch\u2122. Photo by: Proven Winners.<\/p>\n

USDA hardiness zones:<\/h3>\n

9-11, annual elsewhere<\/p>\n

Habit:<\/h3>\n

Height:<\/h3>\n

6 to 12 inches tall<\/p>\n

Width:<\/h3>\n

12 to 24 inches wide<\/p>\n

Exposure:<\/h3>\n

Full sun to part shade<\/p>\n

Bloom time:<\/h3>\n

Planting until frost<\/p>\n

Colors:<\/h3>\n

Coral, yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, blue and white<\/p>\n

Common names:<\/h3>\n

Superbells\u00ae, Million Bells\u00ae, mini-petunias or trailing petunias<\/p>\n

Calibrachoa<\/em> is a popular garden annual that blooms continuously from planting until frost and is ideal for containers, hanging baskets, or raised beds. These petunia look-alikes offer a wide range of flower colors and patterns that look great by themselves, or when combined with other plants.<\/p>\n

On this page:<\/strong><\/p>\n

CALIBRACHOA CARE<\/h2>\n

Calibrachoa will bloom all summer as long as their needs are met. Keeping them happy is relatively simple: The critical elements are sun, fertilizer, soil and water. They perform best in containers with excellent drainage.<\/p>\n

Does Calibrachoa<\/em> like sun or shade?<\/h3>\n

Calibrachoa<\/em> plants bloom best with at least six hours of full sun, though they can tolerate partial shade. Without enough light flower numbers will decrease, the plants will stretch and the foliage turns light green.<\/p>\n

How do you keep a Calibrachoa<\/em> blooming?<\/h3>\n

Calibrachoa plants are heavy feeders. Nutrients are quickly leached from the soil by frequent watering, so fertilize regularly for continuous bloom. Use a water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks or add a slow-release granular fertilizer to the soil at planting time, replenishing according to instructions.<\/p>\n

Soil:<\/h3>\n

For containers and hanging baskets, use a quality all-purpose potting mix that drains well. For bedding displays, soil should be well amended and drain quickly.<\/p>\n

How often should I water my Calibrachoa<\/em>?<\/h3>\n

Water calibrachoa when the top couple of inches of soil feel dry. During hot, dry weather, they can dry out quickly and may need daily watering. Stick your finger two inches into the soil; if it feels dry, then it\u2019s time to water. Saturate the whole container so liquid drains from the bottom. Allow to dry slightly between waterings.<\/p>\n

Should I deadhead Calibrachoa<\/em>?<\/h3>\n

Calibrachoa are self-cleaning and require no deadheading. Pinch back tips occasionally to encourage branching, which will produce more flowers. To rejuvenate plants mid-season, cut branches to half their length and fertilize to stimulate new growth.<\/p>\n

Diseases and pests:<\/h3>\n

Overwatering can lead to root rot or an infection from one of the Phytophthora<\/em> species, which can kill plants. If plants are wilted after watering, this can be a sign of root rot. Heat stress can make plants susceptible to spider mites, and aphids.<\/p>\n

Deer resistance:<\/h3>\n

Calibrachoa do not seem particularly tasty to deer; however, they are not classified as deer resistant.<\/p>\n

PLANTING INSTRUCTIONS<\/h2>\n

When to plant:<\/h3>\n

Plant outside in mid-to-late spring after all danger of frost is past.<\/p>\n

Where to plant:<\/h3>\n

Grow by themselves or in combination with other plants in containers or hanging baskets with well-draining soil. They can also be planted in beds or borders providing the soil is well amended and drains well; however, they perform best in pots.<\/p>\n

How to plant:<\/h3>\n

Place potting mix in a hanging basket or container. Remove from the pot and gently tease the roots out if pot-bound. Place 6 to 12 inches apart and firm soil around the base. Water well to thoroughly wet the plant and settle the soil around it.<\/p>\n

CALIBRACHOA VARIETIES<\/h2>\n

Photo: Proven Winners<\/p>\n

Superbells\u00ae Lemon Slice\u00ae<\/strong> \u2014 Buy now from Proven Winners
Calibrachoa<\/em> hybrid<\/p>\n

Height\/Spread:<\/h3>\n

12 to 24 inches wide, 6 to 12 inches tall<\/p>\n

The striking pinwheel pattern of the bright yellow blooms makes this a stunning container accent. Combine with yellow coleus for upright structure, and trailing bacopa for contrasting texture.<\/p>\n

Photo: Proven Winners<\/p>\n

Superbells\u00ae Grape Punch\u2122<\/strong> \u2014 Buy now from Proven Winners
Calibrachoa<\/em> hybrid<\/p>\n

Height\/Spread:<\/h3>\n

12 to 24 inches wide, 6 to 12 inches tall<\/p>\n

The royal color will pop when combined with complementary colors of orange or yellow. Try Grape Punch with an orange African daisy for height and contrast, and a blue verbena for a sophisticated touch.<\/p>\n

Photo: Proven Winners<\/p>\n

Superbells\u00ae Cherry Star<\/strong> \u2014 Buy now from Proven Winners
Calibrachoa<\/em> hybrid<\/p>\n

Height\/Spread:<\/h3>\n

12 to 24 inches wide, 6 to 12 inches tall<\/p>\n

For a vibrant color basket, combine with pink Superbells\u00ae and yellow nemesia.<\/p>\n

Photo: Proven Winners<\/p>\n

Superbells\u00ae Magic\u2122 Pink Lemonade<\/strong> \u2014 Buy now from Proven Winners
Calibrachoa<\/em> hybrid<\/p>\n

Height\/Spread:<\/h3>\n

12 to 24 inches wide, 6 to 12 inches tall<\/p>\n

This lively variety changes color depending on the season and the amount of sunlight it receives. Flowers start out bright lemon yellow and transition to vibrant pink, with both colors seen on the plant at the same time.<\/p>\n

Photo: Proven Winners<\/p>\n

Superbells\u00ae Holy Moly!\u00ae<\/strong> \u2014 Buy now from Proven Winners
Calibrachoa<\/em> hybrid<\/p>\n

Height\/Spread:<\/h3>\n

12 to 24 inches wide, 6 to 12 inches tall<\/p>\n

This striking bicolor goes well with many other colors. Combine with red Superbells\u00ae and black sweet potato vine for a dusky tropical feel.<\/p>\n

Photo: Proven Winners<\/p>\n

Superbells\u00ae Holy Smokes!\u00ae<\/strong> \u2014 Buy now from Proven Winners
Calibrachoa<\/em> hybrid<\/p>\n

Height\/Spread:<\/h3>\n

12 to 24 inches wide, 6 to 12 inches tall<\/p>\n

This eye-catching variety goes well in a range of color schemes, leaving you captivated all season long. Plant with purple Persian shield and white bacopa for a winning combination.<\/p>\n

Photo: Proven Winners<\/p>\n

Superbells\u00ae Coral Sun<\/strong> \u2014 Buy now from Proven Winners
Calibrachoa<\/em> hybrid<\/p>\n

Height\/Spread:<\/h3>\n

12 to 24 inches wide, 6 to 12 inches tall<\/p>\n

New for 2021, Coral Sun looks great paired with purple petunias and yellow bidens, as seen in this ‘Sweet Mango’ container recipe.<\/p>\n

Photo: Proven Winners<\/p>\n

Superbells\u00ae Doublette Love Swept\u2122<\/strong> \u2014 Buy now from Proven Winners
Calibrachoa<\/em> hybrid<\/p>\n

Height\/Spread:<\/h3>\n

12 to 24 inches wide, 6 to 10 inches tall<\/p>\n

Small, double flowers bloom all season long. Plant with Superbells\u00ae White and Supertunia\u00ae Trailing Rose Veined for a pink and white basket full of flowers all summer and into fall. See the Truly Pink container recipe.<\/p>\n

Photo: Ball Horticultural Company<\/p>\n

MiniFamous\u00ae ‘Uno Double Red’<\/strong>
Calibrachoa<\/em> hybrid<\/p>\n

Height\/Spread:<\/h3>\n

10 to 15 inches tall and wide<\/p>\n

Use this velvety double rose-shaped flower in hot or subdued color themes. Combine with blue salvia for upright structure and yellow bidens for an eye-popping primary color scheme.<\/p>\n

Photo: Ball Horticultural Company<\/p>\n

Can-Can\u00ae Orange<\/strong>
Calibrachoa<\/em> hybrid<\/p>\n

Height\/Spread:<\/h3>\n

10 to 15 inches tall and wide<\/p>\n

These orange flowers add cheerfulness to any garden. Pair with complementary hues of purple or blue for a pop of contrast. For extra sizzle, combine with purple fountain grass, purple Superbells\u00ae and cinammon coral bells.<\/p>\n

LANDSCAPING TIPS<\/h2>\n

One of the most versatile annuals, calibrachoa can be incorporated into any landscape. Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Place one or two tall ceramic pots near your home\u2019s entrance and fill with colorful Superbells\u00ae to greet visitors.<\/li>\n
  • Adorn arbors and pergolas with hanging baskets brimming with your favorite colors.<\/li>\n
  • Plant window boxes that receive at least 6 hours of sunlight with colors that complement your home\u2019s exterior.<\/li>\n
  • Shepherd\u2019s hooks are a great way to add hanging baskets for instant color by a patio, deck or poolside. Hooks are easily moved around for a fresh look.<\/li>\n
  • Place a hanging basket outside your kitchen window to enjoy a burst of color whenever you\u2019re cooking or doing dishes. This will attract hummingbirds and butterflies up close where you can most appreciate them.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    COMPANION PLANTS<\/h2>\n

    Calibrachoa combine well with many other annuals. Get creative and make your own custom containers using the principle of \u201cthriller, filler, and spiller.\u201d<\/p>\n

      \n
    • Combine them with taller plants such as angelonia, coleus, African daisy, purple fountain grass, zonal geranium, or Persian shield.<\/li>\n
    • Add fillers such as coral bells, lantana, marigold, or sedges.<\/li>\n
    • Companion trailers include sweet potato vine, fan flower (Scaevola<\/em>), verbena, bidens, bacopa, or nemesia.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

      Million bells<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_editorskit_title_hidden":false,"_editorskit_reading_time":0,"_editorskit_is_block_options_detached":false,"_editorskit_block_options_position":"{}","cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/489"}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=489"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/489\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=489"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=489"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/knowdrive.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=489"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}