The last few years there has been a tremendous increase in what I call "Long Lived Annuals." I suppose that technically they are short lived perennials, but doesn't long lived annuals just sound better. In any case they generally have a long bloom season and do come back for a few years before dying out or just looking old.

Million Bells or Calibrachoa hybrid are one of the best of these new plants. When they were introduced they were sold for pots or hanging baskets. Soon, however, we were using them as small area ground covers and for splashed of color in the landscape in the ground.

Recently there have been a group of new Million Bells that are somewhat taller growing. I expect these to be even beter for splashes of color in the landscape!

These love the sun but also perform well with half day sun. As most long blooming plants they respond dramatically when fertilized regularly with Masters' Rose and Flower Food.

These are just a few of the colors and varieties Million Bells should be in everyone's garden that loves summer color!

Pictures courtesy of Proven Winners

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