For my first column I just had to start off singing the praises of my favorite flower, the Calibrachoa Superbells.  I stumbled upon this beautiful flower last summer at Wal-Mart, a nursery I do not usually frequent.  It ended up being – by far – my favorite purchase of the season.  

Calibrachoas look like a miniature Petunia and beautifully cascade over the sides of the hanging basket or container.  They are super easy to grow and maintain. 

They come in a variety of colors, including violet, blue, pink, red, magenta, yellow, bronze and white.  I purchased a hanging basket with a “confetti” mix of gorgeous red, purple and yellow shades. 

They hang along my covered patio that receives part sun and part shade.  These beautiful flowers thrived last year until the fierce sun and heat of the Texas summer made them start to decline.  I have read that they do not require a lot of water, but I found I could not give them enough last summer.  This year we have the hanging baskets connected to our sprinkler system [thanks to my sweet hubby!], so that should solve that problem.  I am going to watch these carefully in July and if they start declining, I plan to move them to a shadier part of the backyard. 

However, I just read that when the flowers start to wane, a simple trim is all that is needed to correct the problem, so I guess I’ll try that route too.  I also just read that too much watering causes root rot, so I’ll have to keep an eye on that as well.  

The plants are low-maintenance and do not require deadheading.  However, I do often pick off the spent flowers so they will rebloom more quickly, just as I do with all my flowers and plants. 

These beautiful plants are generally annuals, but can be perennials in zones 9-11 [Dallas is zone 7].

Take my advice – head to your local nursery and purchase these fabulous flowers!!

Characteristics:
Bloom time: spring to frost  
Bloom colors: Violet, blue, pink, red, magenta, yellow, bronze, white
Sun: Full sun
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Low
Fertilize: Once a month
Pet friendly: Yes
Insect problems: No
Disease problems: No