Does Calibrachoa need sun or shade?

Calibrachoa plants thrive in sunny conditions and perform best when they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Sunlight is essential for their growth and blooming, as it provides energy for photosynthesis, which is crucial for the production of flowers and foliage.

In my experience as a gardening and landscaping expert, I have noticed that calibrachoa plants placed in areas with insufficient sunlight tend to have decreased flower production. The lack of sunlight causes the plants to stretch and become leggy, resulting in a less compact and bushy appearance. Additionally, the foliage of calibrachoa plants grown in shade tends to be lighter green compared to those grown in full sun.

While calibrachoa can tolerate some shade, it is important to note that excessive shade can negatively impact their overall performance. If the plants do not receive enough sunlight, their growth may become stunted, and they may fail to flower altogether. Therefore, it is recommended to provide them with as much sunlight as possible to ensure optimal growth and abundant blooms.

To illustrate this point, I recall a situation where I had planted calibrachoa in a partially shaded area of my garden. Although there was some sunlight during certain parts of the day, the plants did not flower as profusely as those grown in full sun. The foliage also appeared lighter in color, indicating that they were not receiving enough light. After relocating the calibrachoa plants to a sunnier spot, their growth improved significantly, and they produced a multitude of vibrant blooms.

Calibrachoa plants require a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight to thrive and bloom abundantly. While they can tolerate some shade, it is important to ensure they receive sufficient sunlight to prevent leggy growth, decreased flower production, and a lighter green foliage color. Providing a sunny location for your calibrachoa plants will result in vigorous growth and a stunning display of colorful flowers.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.