Superbells Lemon Slice is a popular calibrachoa variety known for its distinctive pinwheel pattern of yellow and white blooms. This vibrant plant offers a continuous display of color from spring until the first frost. Its prolific flowering and heat tolerance contribute to its widespread appeal in various garden settings.
Planting and Growing Conditions
Light Requirements
Superbells Lemon Slice thrives best when exposed to full sun, which means receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. While it can tolerate partial sun (four to six hours of sunlight), too much shade can lead to leggy growth and reduced flower production.
Soil Preferences
Well-drained soil is essential for Superbells Lemon Slice, as these plants do not tolerate constantly damp or soggy conditions. Incorporating rich organic matter into the soil helps improve drainage and provides necessary nutrients. A slightly acidic soil pH, ideally between 5.5 and 5.8, is recommended to ensure proper nutrient uptake.
Watering Needs
Consistent watering is important for Superbells Lemon Slice, especially when grown in containers. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot, a common issue for calibrachoas. Plants in the ground typically require less frequent watering once established, unless conditions are particularly dry.
Fertilization
Superbells Lemon Slice are heavy feeders and benefit from regular fertilization to support their continuous blooming. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio around 20-10-20 or 24-12-17 is suitable. Apply fertilizer every one to two weeks during the growing season. For landscape plants, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in spring and mid-summer.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Pruning and Deadheading
Superbells Lemon Slice are self-cleaning, meaning they do not require deadheading of spent blooms to encourage new flowers. However, occasional trimming can promote bushier growth and a fuller appearance. If plants become leggy or look tired, pruning them back by up to one-third of their volume can rejuvenate them. This can be done in late July or early August to encourage a fresh flush of blooms.
Pest and Disease Management
While generally robust, Superbells Lemon Slice can occasionally encounter pests like aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Good air circulation and proper watering practices help prevent common diseases such as root rot, which can occur in overly wet conditions. Maintaining the correct soil pH is also important, as an imbalanced pH can hinder nutrient absorption and lead to yellowing foliage. If yellowing occurs despite regular fertilization, applying chelated iron can help address nutrient deficiencies caused by pH issues.
Design and Uses
Superbells Lemon Slice is highly versatile and makes an excellent addition to various garden designs. Its mounding and trailing habit allows it to function as a “spiller” in container arrangements and hanging baskets, gracefully cascading over the edges. It also performs well as a groundcover or border plant in garden beds, provided the soil has adequate drainage. The bright yellow and white blooms pair beautifully with plants featuring purple or blue hues, such as purple fountain grass, purple calibrachoas, or blue lobelia, creating striking color contrasts.