Top 10 Hanging Plants for a Dreamy Outdoor Nook

5. Million Bells (Calibrachoa spp.) – The Prolific Bloomer

You guys, if you love the look of Petunias but want something that stays a little more compact and is just covered in blooms, then you absolutely HAVE to meet Million Bells, also known as Calibrachoa. The name says it all – it’s like a million tiny bells just bursting with color! These are some of the best flowering hanging plants you can find.

Like Mini Petunias, But Oh So Many!

At first glance, you might think, “Hey, those look like tiny Petunias!” And you’d be right, they do look a lot alike with their small, bell-shaped flowers. But the amazing thing about Million Bells is the sheer abundance of those flowers. They don’t just have a few blooms here and there; a happy Calibrachoa plant will be absolutely smothered in them, creating this incredible mounding and trailing effect.

I remember the first time I bought a hanging basket of mixed Million Bells. It had yellows, oranges, and hot pinks all mixed together. It was so incredibly vibrant, it practically glowed! It’s the kind of plant that makes you smile just looking at it. They are just powerhouses of color for your hanging containers.

Sun, Sun, and More Sun, Please!

Now, if there’s one thing Million Bells adore, it’s sunshine. These are true sun worshippers, through and through! To get that profusion of blooms they’re famous for, you need to give them a spot that gets full sun – we’re talking at least six, if not more, hours of direct sunlight a day. They thrive in heat and sun, which makes them perfect for those super sunny patios or balconies, especially in warmer climates.¹

I had this one spot on my deck that was just brutal – it got relentless afternoon sun, and a lot of plants just kind of frizzled there. I’d try something, it’d look sad, I’d try something else… you know the drill. Then I tried a basket of Million Bells, and holy moly, they LOVED it! It was like they were saying, “Bring on the heat!” It was such a relief to finally find a flowering hanging plant that could handle that intense sun and still look absolutely fabulous. It was a total gardening win!

Easy Peasy Care: The Self-Cleaning Superstar!

Here’s one of the best parts about Million Bells, and something that makes them a real winner in my book: they generally don’t need deadheading! Can I get an amen? Unlike Petunias, where you’re often out there pinching off spent blooms, Calibrachoa are often called “self-cleaning.”² The old flowers just sort of shrivel up and fall off, making way for new ones. This is a game-changer if you want tons of color without a lot of fuss.

Of course, they still need a few things. Well-draining soil is super important, as they don’t like to have soggy roots. And because they’re working so hard producing all those flowers in the hot sun, regular watering is a must. You’ll likely need to water your hanging baskets daily when it’s really hot, just like with Petunias. But the trade-off of not having to deadhead? Totally worth it for such low maintenance outdoor plants that give such a big show.

The Dreamy Factor: A Carpet of Joyful Color!

So, how do Million Bells contribute to that dreamy outdoor nook? They offer an undeniable carpet of vibrant color, creating an instantly joyful and energetic vibe. If your idea of a dream nook is one that’s bright, cheerful, and buzzing with life, these are your guys.

They are perfect for injecting a serious dose of happiness into any small space. Imagine a cascade of these tiny, bright trumpets spilling over the edges of pots and baskets, creating waves of color. It’s pure, unadulterated cheer! They make any little corner feel like a celebration.

Million Bells are just little bundles of floral joy, aren’t they? So easy and so rewarding! Now, if you’re looking for something with a more delicate charm and a lovely fragrance, our next plant is a sweet delight. Click the “Next” button below to discover Plant #6: Sweet Alyssum!