Grow Calibrachoa for Baskets, Borders and Butterflies
A few years ago, I saw my first Million Bells plant in a local nursery and fell in love. Brightly colored petunia-like blooms were abundant.
The plant sticker claimed no deadheading and easy care. I joyfully brought many hues home to try in my garden, and they did not disappoint.
Calibrachoa, a petunia-related genus, is sold as Million Bells. Both Superbells and Mini-Petunias are sold.
They are all hybrids of a South American Calibrachoa. Manufacturers and growers patent and trademark most.
Calibrachoa is hardy in zones 9–11, however most people grow it as an annual. Grow it in milder fall–spring seasons in warmer climates.
Choose sunny or afternoon-shaded places in warmer climates. Due to its self-cleaning nature, calibrachoa blossoms fall off without deadheading.
Though not fussy, these plants like frequent watering. They hate damp soil. Success requires constant fertilizing because to the profusion of blossoms.
The butterfly garden's shepherd's hook baskets are a great way to admire these blooms. You can see butterflies enjoying the blooms best at eye level!
Container favorites come in dozens of colors. Catalogs and online growers offer unique color combinations that your local nursery may not have.
Bumble Bee Hot Pink Calibrachoa attracts bees and other pollinators with its 1-inch flowers all summer.