Million Bells Calibrachoa Volcano Sunset (Volcano Series)

Water

Million Bells, as the Calibrachoa Volcano Sunset are commonly known, prefer consistent moisture without being waterlogged. They should be watered thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which may be approximately twice a week during hot weather. Use approximately 16 ounces of water for a standard 10-inch hanging basket each time you water, adjusting for smaller or larger pots. During cooler weather or periods of rain, reduce watering frequency to prevent root rot. Make sure that any excess water can drain freely from the pot to avoid water accumulation at the bottom.

Light

Million Bells thrive in full sun to partial shade conditions. The ideal location for Calibrachoa Volcano Sunset is a spot where they receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. If grown indoors, place them near a south-facing window to ensure they get enough light. Be mindful that too much shade can decrease blooming and lead to leggy growth.

Temperature

Million Bells prefer warm temperatures and should be kept at a temperature between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit during the night and between 65 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of approximately 50 degrees Fahrenheit but are not frost-tolerant. Ideal conditions involve consistent warmth without extreme fluctuations in temperature.

Pruning

Million Bells benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch back the tips of the stems every few weeks, especially when the plant begins to look leggy. Pruning is best done in the early morning or late evening. Cut back by about a third in midsummer to rejuvenate the plant and promote a fresh flush of flowers heading into the fall.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The best soil mix for Million Bells (Calibrachoa) is light, well-draining potting soil with added perlite or sand to enhance drainage. The ideal soil pH for this plant should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.6 to 6.5.

Repotting

Million Bells (Calibrachoa) should be repotted every year in the spring to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth. Use a slightly larger pot to ensure it has enough space to grow.

Humidity & Misting

Million Bells (Calibrachoa) prefers moderate humidity levels, but it is tolerant to a range of conditions as long as there is good air circulation around the plant.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright light; keep soil slightly moist.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to part shade; well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

The life of Calibrachoa, commonly known as Million Bells, begins with seed germination, where warmth and moisture trigger the growth of a new plant. The seedling stage follows, characterized by the emergence of a pair of cotyledons and then the true leaves. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it develops a strong root system and multiple stems, with leaves maturing and undergoing photosynthesis to fuel growth. Transitioning into the flowering stage, Calibrachoa develops vibrant, trumpet-shaped blooms, attracting pollinators vital for sexual reproduction. In the maturity stage, after pollination, the plant produces small, capsule-like fruits that release seeds, completing the cycle. Finally, in regions where Calibrachoa is not perennial, the plant will experience senescence and die after setting seed, unless protected or brought indoors in colder climates.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Calibrachoa Volcano Sunset is through softwood cuttings. This procedure is usually carried out in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) stem from a healthy plant, just below a leaf node, and remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. The stem is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a moist, soilless potting mix. Provide warmth and maintain high humidity around the cuttings by covering the pot with a plastic bag or placing it in a mini greenhouse. Roots should develop within a few weeks, at which point the plastic can be gradually removed and the young plant can eventually be transplanted outdoors after it is well-rooted and hardened off.