Overwintering Million Bells (Calibrachoa) Indoors

Overwintering Million Bells (Calibrachoa) Indoors

A Milwaukee (zone 5) gardener wants to bring a trailing pink Calibrachoa hanging basket indoors for winter and asks about trimming and spring restart.

Feasibility and Challenges

Possible but tricky. Calibrachoa is inexpensive and readily available each spring, so many don't bother. Challenges:

• Light: Needs high light; winter windows often insufficient. Cool temps (40–55°F) help tolerate lower light.
• Pests: Indoors, they attract aphids, whiteflies, spider mites (less issue outdoors).
• Spring growth: Without strong direct sun, new growth is weak and spindly.

If You Try

• Cut back by half before bringing in.
• Place in sunniest window (south/west) or under grow lights.
• Keep cool (40–55°F), water sparingly.
• Scout for pests weekly; treat promptly.
• In spring, move to full sun outdoors after frost.

Success varies; buying new in May is often easier.