Calibrachoa [Million Bells Trailing Fuchsia] Calibrachoa Million Bells Trailing Fuchsia = 'Sunbelrkup' (Million Bells Series)

Water

Million Bells should be watered regularly to maintain moist but not soggy soil. In hot weather, this may mean watering daily, especially if the plants are in containers. Typically, they require approximately one to two gallons of water per week, depending on the weather conditions. Always check the top inch of the soil for dryness before watering. Be sure to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease.

Light

Million Bells thrive best in full sun conditions where they can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate partial shade, but flowering will be more abundant in full sun. Place them in a spot where they are exposed to ample sunlight but protected from extremely high temperatures that might scorch the foliage.

Temperature

Million Bells prefer warm conditions and perform best when temperatures are between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night but are sensitive to frost. To ensure robust growth, keep them away from areas that experience frequent temperature drops below this range.

Pruning

Pruning Million Bells encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems every few weeks during the growing season. If the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, cutting it back by one-third can rejuvenate it. The best time for pruning is in the late spring or early summer when the plant is in active growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Million Bells is lightweight, well-draining potting mix with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. A combination of peat moss, perlite, and compost is ideal to ensure good drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Million Bells should be repotted annually in spring to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Carefully handle the root system to minimize damage during repotting.

Humidity & Misting

Million Bells prefer moderate to high humidity levels, but they are adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity conditions common in most homes and gardens.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.

• Outdoor

  Full to partial sun, well-drained soil, and regular watering.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

The Calibrachoa 'Million Bells Trailing Fuchsia' begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination, grows into a small seedling. The seedling stage involves the development of roots, a stem, and the first set of true leaves, which allows for photosynthesis. As the plant matures into the vegetative stage, it develops a strong root system and numerous branches, with lush foliage and the initiation of buds. This stage is followed by the flowering phase, where vibrant fuchsia blooms appear, attracting pollinators for sexual reproduction and possibly setting seed if properly pollinated. After the flowering season, if conditions permit, the plant may enter a period of dormancy, with a reduction in growth and metabolism during colder months. Finally, as a perennial in its natural habitat but often grown as an annual in temperate climates, it can either die after one season or persist and regrow the following spring if protected from frost or propagated from cuttings.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Propogation: Calibrachoa Million Bells, commonly known as Million Bells, is most popularly propagated through tip cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from the soft, new growth of an established plant. The best time to do this is in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a stem about 3 to 5 inches long, making sure there are two to three sets of leaves. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting to expose the nodes where new roots will form. Dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone to encourage root growth, and then plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil evenly moist and place the cutting in a bright, indirect light location until the roots establish, which usually takes a few weeks.