Million Bells Calibrachoa Aloha Classic Tiki Soft Pink = 'Duealtisopi' (PBR) (Aloha Classic Series)

Water

Million Bells should be watered regularly to maintain moist but not waterlogged soil. They thrive with a consistent watering schedule, ideally receiving about an inch of water per week. During hot, dry periods, they may require more frequent watering, such as every other day, to prevent the soil from drying out completely. If grown in containers, they may need watering daily, especially if the weather is warm and windy. Check the soil moisture regularly, and when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, water deeply with about half a gallon per square foot of soil area to encourage robust root growth.

Light

Million Bells perform best in full sun conditions, which means they should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Ideally, plant them in a location where they are exposed to morning sunlight and have some protection from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. They can tolerate light shade but flowering may be reduced in less than optimal sunlight conditions.

Temperature

Million Bells thrive in warm conditions and prefer an average daytime temperature ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but growth will be slowed. Maximum temperatures should not consistently exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit as extreme heat can stress the plants. Ensure good air circulation to prevent heat stress during the warmer months.

Pruning

Pruning Million Bells encourages bushier growth and more flowers. Lightly trim the plant every few weeks to promote branching, especially if it begins to look leggy or sparse. The best time to prune is in the late spring or early summer as new growth appears, but light pruning can be done throughout the growing season. Deadheading spent flowers isn't necessary as Million Bells are self-cleaning, but removing damaged or dead plant material can promote overall plant health.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Million Bells thrive in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH between 5.6 to 6.0. A good soil mix would be equal parts peat moss, potting soil, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Regular feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer will keep them blooming prolifically.

Repotting

Million Bells should be repotted annually to refresh the soil and accommodate growth. If the plant becomes root-bound or the soil looks depleted, it's time to repot. Choose a container only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent overwatering issues.

Humidity & Misting

Million Bells prefer moderate to high humidity levels but are quite adaptable. A range of 40-70% humidity is ideal for these plants. They can tolerate lower humidity, but leaf and flower health are best with higher humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and water when the topsoil is dry.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade, water regularly, and protect from frost.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

The Calibrachoa 'Duealtisopi', commonly known as the Calibrachoa Aloha Classic Tiki Soft Pink, initiates its life cycle from a seed or cutting, where it then germinates or roots in a warm, moist environment. After sprouting, it enters the vegetative stage, growing stems and leaves rapidly in preparation for flowering, optimally in full to partial sunlight and well-drained soil. The plant reaches maturity and begins the reproductive phase with the development of vibrant pink, trumpet-shaped flowers, which attract pollinators for seed production or can be propagated asexually through cuttings. Following pollination, the plant produces small, non-descript seeds that can be collected for future propagation. As temperatures drop or growing conditions become less favorable, the Calibrachoa may enter a period of dormancy or die back, particularly in areas where it is not hardy. Many gardeners treat Calibrachoa as annuals, replacing them each year, although they can survive as perennials in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Calibrachoa Aloha Classic Tiki Soft Pink, also known simply as Calibrachoa or million bells, is typically propagated through softwood cuttings. The best time for this method is during late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing. A gardener will select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) section just below a leaf node. The lower leaves are removed, and the cutting is dipped in a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The cutting is then inserted into a moist potting mix or directly into the ground in a protected area with indirect sunlight. Consistent moisture and warmth support the rooting process, which generally takes a few weeks before the cuttings are well-rooted and ready to transplant.