Fertilizing Your Calibrachoa Plant:
The Dos and Don’ts

Calibrachoa plants, also known as Million Bells, are popular for their brightly colored flowers that resemble miniature petunias. These plants thrive in warm weather and are a great addition to any garden or patio. However, like any other plant, they require proper care and maintenance to grow and bloom to their fullest potential. One important aspect of caring for your Calibrachoa plant is fertilization. In this article, we’ll cover the dos and don’ts of fertilizing your Calibrachoa plant.

The Dos of Fertilizing Your Calibrachoa Plant

Do Use a Balanced Fertilizer

A balanced fertilizer contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P-K). This type of fertilizer provides your Calibrachoa plant with all the essential nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy. Look for a fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.

Do Fertilize Regularly

Calibrachoa plants require regular fertilization throughout the growing season to produce healthy foliage and abundant flowers. You should fertilize your Calibrachoa plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). You can reduce the frequency of fertilization during the fall and winter months.

Do Water Your Plant Before Fertilizing

Before applying fertilizer to your Calibrachoa plant, make sure the soil is moist. This will help prevent fertilizer burn and ensure that the nutrients are absorbed properly.

Do Follow the Instructions on the Fertilizer Package

Always read and follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully. Over-fertilization can damage your Calibrachoa plant and even kill it. Make sure you measure out the correct amount of fertilizer and apply it evenly across the soil.

The Don’ts of Fertilizing Your Calibrachoa Plant

Don’t Use Too Much Fertilizer

Over-fertilization can cause your Calibrachoa plant to become leggy, produce few flowers, or even die. Avoid using more fertilizer than recommended on the package.

Don’t Apply Fertilizer to Dry Soil

Applying fertilizer to dry soil can cause fertilizer burn or damage your Calibrachoa plant’s roots. Make sure to water your plant thoroughly before applying fertilizer.

Don’t Fertilize Newly Planted Calibrachoa Plants

Newly planted Calibrachoa plants do not require fertilization until they start actively growing. Wait at least two weeks after planting before applying fertilizer.

Don’t Mix Different Types of Fertilizers

Mixing different types of fertilizers can cause nutrient imbalances or even harm your Calibrachoa plant. Stick to using a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use organic fertilizers on my Calibrachoa plant?

A: Yes, you can use organic fertilizers on your Calibrachoa plant. Organic fertilizers provide slow-release nutrients that are gentler on your plants than synthetic fertilizers.

Q: Can I use a higher concentration of fertilizer to make my Calibrachoa plant grow faster?

A: No, using a higher concentration of fertilizer will not make your Calibrachoa plant grow faster. In fact, it can harm your plant by causing over-fertilization.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Calibrachoa hanging basket?

A: You should fertilize your Calibrachoa hanging basket every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). You can reduce the frequency of fertilization during the fall and winter months.

Q: Can I use leftover fertilizer on other plants?

A: It is not recommended to use leftover fertilizer on other plants unless they have similar nutrient requirements as your Calibrachoa plant. Using leftover fertilizer on other plants with different nutrient requirements can cause nutrient imbalances or harm the plants.

In conclusion, proper fertilization is essential for the health and growth of your Calibrachoa plant. Follow these dos and don’ts to ensure that your plant thrives and produces abundant flowers throughout the growing season.