How to water and fertilize Kalanchoe daigremontiana, and what to do when the leaf edges turn black or red
Most succulents like dry, warm conditions, but water is the source of all life, so watering is also a very, very technique-heavy task in growing succulents. How much to water, when to water and when not to water all involve a lot of knowledge. Of course, there are many other issues worth noting when growing succulents.
Watering and fertilizing methods for Kalanchoe daigremontiana
Normally, wait until the soil is completely dry before watering; there is no need to worry that it will dry out and die. Do not fertilize too frequently, otherwise it will cause excessive growth and may even cause the plant to rot. Applying fertilizer 1-2 times a month during the growing season is enough. In midsummer, provide slight shade; in other seasons, there should be sufficient light, otherwise the color of the leaf edges will disappear. After the weather turns cool in autumn, reduce watering. After bringing it indoors in winter, it can overwinter as long as the room temperature stays above 0°C. But keep the potting soil slightly moist.
What to do when the leaf edges of Kalanchoe daigremontiana turn black or red
1. Turning red: The seedling is still small, and the leaf edge color is relatively bright, which is the same principle as a baby's rosy skin. Once it grows larger and gets some sun, the leaf edges will turn to their normal color.
2. If the leaf edges of Kalanchoe daigremontiana turn black, one possibility is that it is about to grow plantlets, and the growth of plantlets causes changes in edge pigmentation. Another possibility is that the potting soil contains cinder; the fine cinder powder is absorbed by the leaves and accumulates at the leaf edges, producing black spots.
The value of Kalanchoe daigremontiana
1. The ornamental value of Kalanchoe daigremontiana
Kalanchoe daigremontiana comes in diverse varieties: broad-leaved, tiger-striped, small-leaved, with many types and styles. Grown on a study windowsill or balcony, its thick, juicy leaves and bright colors make it a very beautiful natural decoration.
2. The medicinal value of Kalanchoe daigremontiana
The whole plant of Kalanchoe daigremontiana can be used as medicine, with the remarkable effects of detoxifying and reducing swelling, promoting blood circulation and relieving pain, and drawing out toxins and promoting tissue regeneration. Fractures, burns, and scalds can all be treated with it, with very good results. Beautiful as it is, it can also help you in some unexpected situations!
3. The horticultural value of Kalanchoe daigremontiana
Kalanchoe daigremontiana has a relatively large plant form, so it is suitable for planting in a yard or other slightly spacious place. Its large leaves can nicely decorate a corner of the yard. Pair it with some short plants to create a jungle feel. Of course, growing it in the living room at home is also very good. A touch of green at the entrance makes you feel especially fresh!
Pest control for Kalanchoe daigremontiana
1. Aphids
Aphids are a common disease and pest in home-grown bonsai, sucking leaf sap and harming plant health. Unlike general pests, aphids cannot be completely removed by hand, so some pesticide or physical treatment methods are often needed.
Control method: physical removal. Soaking orange peel in water is a very good physical method for clearing aphids, with good results and it is also environmentally friendly. For one cup of orange peel water, about 700 ml, add two drops of dish soap, pour it into a spray bottle, shake well, and it is ready to use. Aphids generally grow on new leaves and in the axils of branches, so mainly spray the branch parts near the potting soil, spray thoroughly, and then spray the leaf surfaces.
2. Scale insects
Scale insects are a very annoying pest. Their shells are hard, and they are not affected by ordinary pesticides, often damaging Kalanchoe daigremontiana without being affected at all.
Control method: the pesticide is not important; the timing of spraying is key. Because the shells of adult scale insects are very hard, this often reduces the effectiveness of pesticide application. Although many pesticides can control scale insects, such as methidathion and so on, choosing to spray and kill them when scale insects are in the 1st instar gives the best effect! Maintain the habit of checking for pests. Once you see signs of scale insects, within 1 to 3 days they are in the 1st instar stage. At this time, buy pesticide and spray, directly nipping them in the bud and not giving them a chance to do harm.
3. Lycaenid butterflies
Although lycaenid butterflies are very beautiful after emerging from the cocoon, when they are still larvae they are a very serious pest! They suck the sap of the plant's leaves and can even turn their little pink bodies green from eating, which is just ridiculous!
Control method: manual removal plus insect-proof netting. The larvae of lycaenid butterflies can burrow into the leaves to suck them, which is very annoying. So once discovered, remove them by hand promptly. You can even cut off the branches and leaves where larvae are found to prevent other eggs from hiding among them. Because Kalanchoe daigremontiana plants can grow very large, there are always corners missed during inspection. The best way is to put up an insect-proof net, and then you can keep lycaenid butterflies away!
Although Kalanchoe daigremontiana has very strong vitality, it may still face some problems, such as leaves turning black, pests appearing, and so on. At such times, we should first stay calm, and then look for effective solutions. Of course, in this process, Zhifure will always be by your side.