Collecting seeds from the Calibrachoa plant
The calibrachoa plant is known more commonly as million bells. It is related to the petunia and produces a profusion of brightly colored bell shaped flowers. It is relatively easy to collect calibrachoa seeds; simply allow the pods to dry on the plant, break open and collect the seeds. The problem for many growers, however, is that not all varieties of calibrachoa produce seeds as they are sterile and even if you do get pods, calibrachoa million bell seeds from some hybrids will not grow true to the parent. If your calibrachoa does produce pods these will appear at the end of the flowering period, in late summer or fall depending on the variety you are growing. Although an annual, in some mild regions, growers have found that if they cut the plants right back in November before the cold sets in, that they re-flower the next spring. As well as taking seeds, it is worthwhile taking cuttings from your calibrachoa, as this is the way that most people propagate this plant.
Varieties of calibrachoa
Although it seems that certain hybrids do not produce seeds, there are plenty of varieties of calibrachoa, and it is worth trying different types to see which seed, and enjoying the amazing colors of these lovely flowers whilst so doing. Calibrachoa flower seeds, which are sold on some plant forums, are not going to be true to the parent, and you should not buy them. There are plenty of plants available, and it is unlikely you will find calibrachoa seeds for sale. The name million bells describes a variety of calibrachoa, one of the most loved being the terra cotta hybrid which is a gorgeous yellow, orange, brown mix of one inch trumpet like flowers, trailing spread up to 36 inches and about 6 inches in height. Perfect for hanging baskets, this is an annual in zones 3 to 9, and some manage to be perennial in zones 9 to 11. Other colors in the million bells family are, cherry pink, and the MiniFamous(TM) range in lemon, red, orange, lavender, pink, white, purple, peach and burgundy; an absolute kaleidoscope of color which explains why these flowers are so popular and why people are so keen to find calibrachoa seeds.
Propagation of calibrachoa
You can buy calibrachoa plants from most reputable nurseries, but you cannot buy calibrachoa seeds, so if you want to grow these lovely flowers from scratch you will have to do it through cuttings. If you get lucky and find that your calibrachoa produces seed pods, have a go at planting them, you will not get the original plant again, but it is fun seeing what does grow. There are plant licensing laws against selling calibrachoa seeds as they are protected hybrid plants, but you can plant them in your own garden.
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