did you know?

The genus is native to tropical regions, but million bells was bred in Japan. Although it is available in several other colors, including purple, yellow, and white, 'Cherry Pink' is the only million bells that is not sensitive to day length and that will bloom in winter in frost-free areas.

general maintenance:

Shear lightly in midseason to promote flowering. Remove plants after frost. Unlike their petunia relatives, million bells don't require constant deadheading for continuous flowering.

pests/diseases:

Aphids, caterpillars, leaf spot, and gray mold may occur.

controls:

Regularly hose off aphids with a directed stream of water, or apply insecticidal soap, following label directions. Handpick caterpillars from foliage. To discourage leaf spot and gray mold, space plants for adequate air circulation, reduce watering, and avoid wetting leaves when watering. Remove and destroy severely infected plants, and pick off diseased leaves where practical.

how to sow/plant:

After danger of frost has passed, choose a sunny, well-drained site, and amend with compost or well-rotted manure before setting out young plants 8?12 inches apart. Water after planting.

water and fertilize:

Maintain soil moisture all season. Apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer biweekly or a slow-release fertilizer upon planting, following label directions.

garden hint:

Use million bells as underplanting in the border. Its low, spreading stems will cover less attractive stems of upright annuals and perennials.

features:

• Attractive Flowers
• Attractive Foliage

garden uses:

• Containers (excellent spilling over the sides of window boxes and hanging baskets)
• Flowerbed borders

other uses:

combine with:

licorice plant ivy verbena and 'Samantha.'