my calibrachoa ( million bells) plant has stopped blooming

Question

When I purchased my million bells plant in a hanging basket in the middle of June it was bursting with colorful blooms, but as the flowers died off others did not take their place, leaving a plant with few blooms. It is on a north facing porch, probably not getting direct sun. I keep it well watered. Should I dead head it? Do I just take off the dead bloom or also the pod in which it formed?

Answer 1

If the plant is growing well then try to get it some sun. Million bells is rated full sun to part shade which means it must have at least 4 hours of sun and preferably more to bloom well. Don’t over-fertilize as this encourages lush green growth but fewer blooms. I would trim the plant back just a small amount all over if it is still a relatively small plant or by 1/4 to 1/3 if there are long bloom stems. Keeping the soil moist, not soggy, is perfect. Picture the difference between a sponge full of water (soggy) and one that has been wrung out (moist). In the shade, it may not need water daily, depending on weather and how much you give it each watering. Remember that many plants cease blooming in excessive heat and will pick up when more reasonable weather returns. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/million-bells/calibrachoa-million-bells.htm