How to Propagate Calibrachoa From Cuttings

Calibrachoa, known as “Million Bells,” adds vibrant, cascading color to hanging baskets and container gardens. Its trumpet-shaped flowers bloom from spring until the first frost. Propagating Calibrachoa with stem cuttings is an effective method for creating new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant. This guide details the entire process.

Gathering Propagation Supplies

The best time to take cuttings is during the active growing season, from late spring into early fall. This allows enough time for a root system to develop before winter. To begin, gather the following supplies:

• A healthy parent plant
• Clean, sharp scissors or pruners
• Small pots with drainage holes
• A well-draining potting medium, like a seed starting mix or a blend of perlite and peat moss
• Rooting hormone (optional, but recommended for faster root development)

Propagating from cuttings is the most reliable method because most Calibrachoa are hybrids, and their seeds will not grow into plants identical to the parent.

Taking Calibrachoa Cuttings

Select healthy, vigorous stems from the parent plant that are free of flowers or buds. The plant’s energy should be directed toward root growth, not blooming. In the morning, when the plant is well-hydrated, use a sharp tool to cut a four to six-inch section from the tip of a stem.

Prepare the cutting by stripping the leaves from its bottom half, leaving at least two sets of leaves at the top. This prevents the lower leaves from rotting in the soil. If using a rooting hormone, dip the cut end of the stem into the product and tap off any excess.

Insert the bottom one to two inches of the stem into a pot with pre-moistened potting mix. Firm the soil around the stem to hold it in place. For a fuller plant, you can place up to four cuttings in a single six-inch pot.

Rooting and Caring for Cuttings

Cuttings require a humid environment to root successfully. Create a mini-greenhouse by loosely placing a clear plastic bag over the pot, ensuring it does not touch the leaves. This retains the moisture and warmth needed for root development.

Place the pot in a location with bright, indirect sunlight, as direct sun can scorch the cuttings. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to prevent stem rot. Misting the soil surface when it feels dry is a good way to maintain moisture.

Roots should begin to form within three to four weeks. You can check for growth by giving the cutting a very gentle tug; resistance indicates a root system has started to form. Once roots are present, you can remove the plastic bag and care for the young plant as it matures.

Common Propagation Problems

Some wilting after taking cuttings is normal. If cuttings remain wilted, it may indicate too much direct sunlight or low humidity. Move them to a shadier location or check that the plastic cover is trapping moisture effectively.

Mold or rot on the stems or soil is caused by overwatering or poor air circulation. To prevent this, use pots with good drainage and let the soil dry slightly between waterings. You can also improve airflow by removing the plastic cover for an hour each day.

If cuttings do not root, be patient, as the process can take several weeks. Failure to root may be due to an unhealthy parent stem or poor growing conditions. Taking multiple cuttings at once increases the likelihood of success.