How to Grow

Calibrachoa

How to Grow Calibrachoa

Also known as Million Bells, calibrachoa look like miniature petunias and have the same
great flower power as their larger look-alikes. They come in a fantastic range of colour
combinations and will flower for months in summer and early autumn, looking stunning
trailing from pots and hanging baskets. These tender plants are usually grown as annuals in
the UK.

When your plants arrive

Unpack your plants immediately and check the compost to ensure it has not dried out in
transit. Water with a fine spray, or sit the plants in a tray of shallow water if the compost is
dry.
Pot on plants as soon as possible (preferably within 24 hours) after they have had time to
settle.

Potting on and planting out plug plants

Handle each plant by the plug root ball, rather than the stem to avoid damage.
Pot each plug into a 7.5cm (3in) pot using a good multi-purpose compost or a
container compost.
Grow on for a few weeks in a greenhouse or a bright, frost-free place, but avoid
direct sunlight.
Keep moist but do not over-water. If very cold weather is forecast, cover with a layer
of fleece.
Once there is no more danger of frost, the plants can be moved to their permanent
position.
Harden off your plants before planting them out by placing the pots outside during
the day and bringing them back in at night. After 7-10 days, the plants will be ready
to plant out.

How to care for calibrachoas

Plant in a sunny position – calibrachoa need at least 6 hours of sun per day to flower
well. They do best in well-drained compost – add perlite to multipurpose compost to
improve drainage.
Water regularly, especially in dry periods
Feed fortnightly with a high potash liquid feed such as tomato feed.
Calibrachoa are self-cleaning (i.e. faded flowers drop off by themselves) so there is
no need to deadhead them.

Pests and Diseases

Calibrachoa may be prone to the following pests and diseases. Read more about how to
control common plant pests and diseases here.

Pests