Calibrachoa Million Bells Information
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. 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.
Growing Calibrachoa Plants
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. Purchase or plant your seedlings in spring and set out after the last frost in your area.
Calibrachoa Care
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. Calibrachoa care includes periodic fertilizer applications in the garden, though you may need to fertilize more regularly when in a container or hanging basket. 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.
Calibrachoa Propagation
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. 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. 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.
