Unraveling Million Bells: Hidden Soil Truths to Prevent Plant Demise
Million Bells, or Calibrachoa, are popular garden plants known for their vibrant blooms. However, caring for these heavy feeders requires a balanced approach to watering and fertilizing to prevent overwatering, underwatering, and nutrient deficiencies.
- Watering
To ensure proper watering, wait until the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch before watering. This helps avoid overwatering and root rot by allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering. When watering, soak the soil thoroughly so water runs out of the drainage holes, ensuring deep moisture.
Choose a light, airy, and fast-draining potting mix, such as one with perlite or vermiculite, to prevent soggy soil and root suffocation. Containers should have good drainage, and avoid letting the plant sit in water collected in trays, as this promotes root rot. Watch for signs of overwatering such as yellowing leaves, while under watering may cause brown leaf edges and wilting.
- Fertilizing
Million Bells require a balanced diet of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. A water-soluble fertilizer with a nutrient ratio that favours blooming, such as 5-10-5, is suitable. Feed them about once a week to twice a week during the growing season to supply nutrients consistently without overfeeding.
Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer or organic amendments like worm castings applied several times during the season for steady nutrient supply. Feeding every 3–4 waterings is a good rule of thumb if using water-soluble fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing when the plant is dormant or during cooler months.
When handling fertilisers or other chemicals, always wear gloves and a mask to protect yourself. In case of excess fertiliser, stop fertilising, flush the soil with water, prune damaged foliage, and in severe cases, repot with fresh soil.
- Additional Care Tips
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage new flowers and keep the plant looking fresh.
In summary, maintain a balance by watering deeply but infrequently based on soil dryness, use well-draining soil and containers, and provide regular feeding with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer weekly or biweekly during the growing season. This prevents both overwatering and nutrient deficiencies while supporting healthy, continuous blooming.
Incorporate a light, airy, and fast-draining potting mix to support the home-and-garden lifestyle of Million Bells, ensuring its roots won't drown in soggy soil. During gardening activities, be mindful of the water-soluble fertilizer you use, as a balanced diet with a nutrient ratio favoring blooming (such as 5-10-5) will promote vibrant blooms in your lifestyle garden.
