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How to Grow and Care for Calibrachoa ‘Cabaret Red’

When it comes to vibrant, eye-catching flowers that breathe life into your garden, Calibrachoa ‘Cabaret Red’ is a must-have. With its striking, bold red blooms and easy-care nature, this plant is quickly growing in popularity among gardening enthusiasts. Known for their ability to create cascading mounds of color, Calibrachoas (sometimes called Million Bells) are perfect for containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds.

This article is your comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about Calibrachoa ‘Cabaret Red’—from its standout qualities to step-by-step planting and care instructions.

What Makes Calibrachoa ‘Cabaret Red’ Special?

Calibrachoa ‘Cabaret Red’ is part of the Calibrachoa family, an annual plant species that produces small, petunia-like blooms in abundance. But what sets this variety apart is its deep crimson color, which draws butterflies and hummingbirds while adding a touch of sophistication to your outdoor space.

Key Features of Calibrachoa ‘Cabaret Red’:

• Color and Texture: Intense red blooms that remain bright and vibrant against glossy green foliage.
• Compact Growth: Grows to about 6-12 inches in height, with cascading stems that can spread up to 18 inches, making it ideal for hanging baskets and border edges.
• Constant Blooms: Flourishes with an uninterrupted show of flowers from spring through the first frost.
• Low-Maintenance: Resistant to common plant issues, with minimal pruning or deadheading required.

Whether you’re filling a container for your patio or brightening up a garden bed, Cabaret Red offers show-stopping beauty all season long.

Where to Use Calibrachoa ‘Cabaret Red’:

1. Hanging Baskets – Perfect for showcasing their cascading growth habit. Position them high to create a “waterfall” of flowers.
2. Containers and Planters – Adds bright pops of red to patios and decks.
3. Garden Beds and Borders – Use as edging plants for a bold, defining effect.
4. Mixed Arrangements – Pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses or white and yellow flowers for striking contrast.

How to Grow Calibrachoa ‘Cabaret Red’

The richness of this plant’s color and its long-lasting blooms are easily achieved with proper planting and care. Follow these steps to make sure your garden reaps the full splendor of Cabaret Red.

Step 1: Pick the Right Spot

Calibrachoas are sun lovers. To ensure prolific blooms:

• Choose a location with 6-8 hours of full sun daily. Partial sun may yield fewer flowers.
• While Cabaret Red tolerates light shade, too much shade may cause leggy stems and reduced blooming.

Step 2: Choose Quality Soil

Calibrachoa prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. To prepare:

• Use a lightweight, well-aerated potting mix.
• If planting in garden beds, improve drainage by adding compost or peat moss to the soil.

Step 3: Planting

Once you’ve found the perfect spot, it’s time to plant:

1. Timing: Wait until after the last frost. Calibrachoas thrive in warm conditions.
2. Spacing: Provide adequate space for airflow. The ideal spacing is 8-12 inches apart.
3. Depth: Make sure the roots are covered, but don’t bury the stem too deeply, as this can invite rot.

Step 4: Watering

Keep your soil consistently moist, but don’t overwater. Calibrachoa roots can rot in soggy soil. Here’s how to strike a balance:

• Water deeply and thoroughly once the top inch of soil feels dry.
• For containers, make sure they have proper drainage holes.

Step 5: Fertilizing

Cabaret Red is a heavy feeder and responds well to regular doses of nutrients:

• During the growing season, feed every 2-3 weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer containing equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
• Consider a slow-release fertilizer to reduce effort.

Caring for Your Cabaret Red

Calibrachoa ‘Cabaret Red’ is low-maintenance, but follow these tips to keep it lush and blooming all season:

1. Pruning and Deadheading

While deadheading is not mandatory as Cabaret Red is self-cleaning, some occasional maintenance can help:

• Prune leggy stems to promote a bushier and healthier appearance.
• Pinch back spent blooms to redirect energy to new growth.

2. Pest and Disease Management

Calibrachoas are resistant to many pests and diseases, but care for potential issues:

• Aphids: Spray affected areas with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
• Root Rot: Check soil moisture regularly, and avoid overwatering.
• Powdery Mildew: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal problems.

3. Seasonal Transition

Cabaret Red enjoys cooler conditions toward the end of the season:

• It can survive mild frosts but protect the plant in case of severe cold.
• For longer-lasting blooms, consider moving pots into filtered sunlight during extreme summer heat.

Stunning Pairings for Cabaret Red

To take your garden design to the next level, combine Cabaret Red with complementary plants:

• Bacopa or Lobelia in white creates a classic, clean aesthetic.
• Yellow flowers like Marigolds add warmth and brightness.
• Grasses such as Carex introduce texture for a dynamic look.

Bring Color and Joy to Your Garden with Cabaret Red

Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or a novice gardener, Calibrachoa ‘Cabaret Red’ is a great choice to elevate your space. Between its fiery blooms, cascading growth, and minimal care requirements, it’s as rewarding to grow as it is beautiful to look at.

With the planting and care tips in this guide, you’re set to create an impressive display of red brilliance that lights up your outdoor areas from spring to fall. And remember, whether you grow them in hanging baskets, garden beds, or containers, Cabaret Red ensures your garden will never lack vibrancy. Happy gardening!