Calibrachoa Hybrid

• Native to South America, calibrachoa are often called 'million bells' for their profusion of small, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom continuously in warm weather.
• These trailing plants typically cascade 20-40cm, making them ideal for hanging baskets, window boxes, and as spillers in mixed containers.
• The hybrid varieties offer an exciting range of colours including purple, pink, yellow, white, orange, and bi-colours, often with contrasting throats or patterns.
• Unlike petunias, calibrachoa have smaller leaves and flowers but are generally more heat tolerant and disease resistant in Australian conditions.
• They're beloved by gardeners for their low-maintenance nature and ability to flower from spring through to the first frost.

• Water regularly during growing season, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings - typically every 2-3 days in containers during summer heat.
• Plant in full sun locations with at least 6 hours direct sunlight daily for maximum flowering performance.
• Use well-draining potting mix for containers or improve garden soil drainage with compost and coarse sand.
• Apply liquid fertiliser fortnightly from September to April, reducing to monthly during cooler months.
• Deadheading isn't necessary as flowers self-clean, but light pruning encourages bushier growth and more blooms.
• Maintain moderate humidity around plants but ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
• Bring containers under cover or indoors during frost periods, or treat as annuals in cold regions.

• Provide full sun for best flowering performance, though they'll tolerate light afternoon shade in hot Australian summers. Morning sun is essential for healthy growth.
• Water when top 2cm of soil feels dry, watering deeply but allowing good drainage. Reduce watering frequency in cooler months.
• Feed with liquid fertiliser every 2 weeks during growing season from spring to autumn. Use a balanced formula or one slightly higher in phosphorus for more blooms.
• Pinch growing tips when young to encourage bushier growth and more flowering stems. Light pruning after flowering flushes promotes continued blooming.
• Protect from frost and strong winds which can damage delicate stems and flowers.

• Aphids can cluster on new growth and flower buds - spray with insecticidal soap or encourage beneficial insects like ladybirds. Check regularly during warm weather.
• Root rot occurs from overwatering or poor drainage - ensure containers have drainage holes and allow soil to dry between waterings. Move to better-draining location if planted in ground.
• Whitefly infestations cause yellowing leaves and sticky honeydew - use yellow sticky traps and neem oil spray. Avoid overhead watering which increases humidity.
• Iron deficiency shows as yellowing leaves with green veins - apply iron chelate fertiliser and ensure soil pH is slightly acidic to neutral.