Troubleshooting
Small-flowered calibrachoa problems — and how to fix them
Small-flowered calibrachoa (Calibrachoa parviflora) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Root rot in heavy or wet soil
Poor drainage is the primary killer. Ensure containers have adequate drainage holes and use a gritty, free-draining mix. In garden soil, raise beds or plant on slopes.
Aphid infestations
Clusters of aphids appear on young shoot tips, causing distortion and sticky honeydew. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as parasitic wasps.
Soil pH creep causing chlorosis
Like hybrid calibrachoa, the species can show interveinal yellowing if soil pH rises above 6.5. Use slightly acidic potting medium and ericaceous liquid feeds to maintain the correct pH.
Prevent small-flowered calibrachoa problems before they start
Most small-flowered calibrachoa issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for small-flowered calibrachoa in general rather than its problems? Read the full small-flowered calibrachoa care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Small-flowered calibrachoa problems — FAQ
Why is my small-flowered calibrachoa root rot in heavy or wet soil?
Poor drainage is the primary killer. Ensure containers have adequate drainage holes and use a gritty, free-draining mix. In garden soil, raise beds or plant on slopes.
Why is my small-flowered calibrachoa aphid infestations?
Clusters of aphids appear on young shoot tips, causing distortion and sticky honeydew. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as parasitic wasps.
Why is my small-flowered calibrachoa soil ph creep causing chlorosis?
Like hybrid calibrachoa, the species can show interveinal yellowing if soil pH rises above 6.5. Use slightly acidic potting medium and ericaceous liquid feeds to maintain the correct pH.