Calibrachoa is a beautiful flowering plant that is commonly known as Million Bells. It has trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in a variety of colors, including pink, yellow, orange, and purple. Calibrachoa is easy to grow and care for, making it a popular choice among gardeners. In this article, we will cover everything that you need to know about calibrachoa care and how to grow beautiful plants in your garden.
The Basics of Calibrachoa Care
Calibrachoa is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in warm climates. The following are the basic requirements for growing calibrachoa:
Light
Calibrachoa requires full sunlight to thrive. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If you live in an area with intense summer heat, it is recommended to provide filtered sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.
Soil
Calibrachoa prefers well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. It is important to ensure that the soil is not too compact as this can restrict root growth and lead to drainage problems. A soil pH of 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal for optimal growth.
Water
Calibrachoa needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. It is important not to overwater the plants as this can lead to root rot. Ensure there is proper drainage, so the soil is not too waterlogged.
Fertilizer
Calibrachoa requires regular fertilization to promote healthy plant growth and blooming. Use a high-quality balanced fertilizer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. It is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to fertilizer burn.
Planting Calibrachoa
Calibrachoa can be planted in the ground or in containers. The following are the steps for planting calibrachoa:
Step 1 – Choose a location
Choose a location with full sun and well-drained soil.
Step 2 – Prepare the soil
Prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil quality. Ensure the soil pH is 6.0 to 6.5.
Step 3 – Dig a hole
Dig a hole that is the same depth as the root ball and twice as wide.
Step 4 – Plant the calibrachoa
Place the calibrachoa into the hole and fill in with soil. Gently press the soil down to remove air pockets.
Step 5 – Water the plant
Water the plant thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist but not overly wet.
Maintaining Calibrachoa
Calibrachoa is a low-maintenance plant, but it still requires proper care to ensure healthy growth and blooming. The following are some tips for maintaining calibrachoa:
Deadheading
Remove spent blooms by deadheading regularly to encourage new growth and blooming.
Pruning
Regular pruning can encourage bushier growth and a more compact plant.
Winter Care
In cold climates, calibrachoa is an annual plant and does not survive the winter. If you live in a cold climate, you can either plant new calibrachoa each year or treat them as an indoor plant during the winter months.
FAQs about Calibrachoa Care
Q. Can Calibrachoa grow in shade?
Calibrachoa requires full sunlight to grow and bloom. While it can tolerate some shade, it will not thrive and may not produce as many flowers.
Q. How often should I water Calibrachoa?
Calibrachoa needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Q. When should I fertilize Calibrachoa?
Fertilize calibrachoa regularly throughout the growing season, following the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Q. How often should I deadhead Calibrachoa?
Deadhead calibrachoa regularly throughout the growing season to encourage new growth and blooming.
Conclusion
Calibrachoa is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for plant that is a great addition to any garden. By following the basic care instructions and planting tips described in this article, you can grow healthy and beautiful calibrachoa plants in your garden or in containers. With proper care and maintenance, calibrachoa can provide a vibrant and colorful display that lasts throughout the growing season.
