Trailing Petunia
By Deborah Light-Pacheco UCCE Master Gardener
Common name of plant: Million Bells or Trailing Petunia
Scientific name: Calibrachoa
Planting area: Sunset Zones 8, 9, 14-24 as perennial; Zones 2-7, 10-13 as annual
Size: Height 6-12 inches, width 12-24 inches with a trailing habit
Bloom Season: Spring, summer, fall; grow as perennials in warmer climates
Exposure: Full sun or light shade
Pruning needs: Self-cleaning, meaning no deadheading needed
Water needs: Regular
Snapshot: Million bells is a hybridized plant that originated in South America. It is part of the nightshade family which also includes, petunias, potatoes, and tomatoes. It grows on wiry stems with close set leaves and tiny bell-shaped flowers in colors including violet, blue, pink, red, magenta, yellow, bronze and white. Blooms are produced en masse year long and do best in hanging baskets and flower boxes.
Calibrachoa need full sun for 8 hours a day and well-draining, good quality potting mix. They are pH sensitive and perform best with a pH of 5-6.5. It requires regular feedings with a balanced liquid fertilizer or a slow-release fertilizer to support continuous blooming. Additionally, they need frequent watering, especially when planted in hanging baskets. Apply ample water and allow the excess to drain through. Repeat as often as needed to keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Soggy soil may develop root rot.
Calibrachoa are rarely affected by diseases but can develop minor populations mites and thrips. Creating good air circulation within the plant will help reduce occurrences of pest insects. Do so by lightly thinning stems on the interior. To maintain a more compact plant, clip off overreaching trailers to achieve the desired shape.
This trailing plant is easy to propagate. Simply snip a 6-inch stem that is free of blooms, remove the bottom leaves and place in water. Roots should begin to develop in 3-4 weeks at which time they can be placed into potting mix.
With a little time and attention, you can add colorful display of long-lasting blooms to your porch, deck or raised beds. Enjoy!