How to Grow Kalanchoe (Christmas Kalanchoe)? A Complete Guide to Pest and Disease Control

Kalanchoe, whose scientific name is Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, is a perennial succulent herb. Many friends may think from the literal meaning of the name that this is a vegetable, but it actually is not. Kalanchoe is one of the plants in the Crassulaceae family, and can also be called shou xing hua or jia le hua. Because it blooms around Christmas, it can also be called Christmas kalanchoe. So how do you grow kalanchoe? How do you control pests and diseases when they appear?

1. How do you grow kalanchoe?

Because kalanchoe is loved by the public, it has now become one of the fastest-growing potted flowers among potted plants. Many friends do not really know how to grow it after buying it, so I have summarized the care tips for you:

1. Temperature

Kalanchoe originates from Madagascar in Africa and likes to grow in a warm environment, so the ideal temperature is suitable between 15-25 degrees. If it is too high or too low, it may cause the plant to suffer cold damage or sunburn, make kalanchoe enter a dormant state, and the flowers it produces will not be satisfactory.

2. Light

Since it is a plant that likes a warm environment, it naturally also likes sunlight rather than shade. In winter, kalanchoe can be placed in a sunny place; there is no need to deliberately avoid direct sunlight, and it can also carry out photosynthesis. In summer, during the dormant period, move the pot to a shaded place and just keep it ventilated.

3. Soil

Kalanchoe does not have high requirements for soil; being fertile and loose is the foundation, and sandy soil with humus content is even better. As for the soil ratio, you can ask professionals at the flower market to mix it for you, which makes it easier to care for later.

4. Watering

There is one principle for watering kalanchoe: water thoroughly only after the water in the soil has dried out completely. This is to avoid root rot at the bottom of the pot and can also effectively prevent yellowing leaves. Each time you water, pay attention to controlling the amount of water; do not let water accumulate in the flowerpot often, and just keep the soil moist.

2. Pest and disease control for kalanchoe

Kalanchoe can also suffer from pests and diseases, mainly aphids, scale insects, and powdery mildew.

1. Aphids

Aphids reproduce very quickly on kalanchoe, so everyone should pay close attention and observe often. After discovering aphids, you can use dimethoate emulsifiable concentrate mixed with professional pesticides for spraying and killing.

2. Scale insects

Scale insects are often caused by environmental problems with ventilation and temperature. After discovering them, you can wipe them clean with a clean soft cloth, or use professional chemicals for control.

3. Powdery mildew

Everyone is relatively familiar with powdery mildew, and garlic juice can prevent it. Before powdery mildew is discovered, you can already spray some garlic juice on the leaves to prevent it. This helps with subsequent plant growth and reduces the occurrence of powdery mildew.

Kalanchoe has a relatively long flowering period. Because its bright colors appear around Christmas, many friends buy it as a special holiday flower. Friends who like kalanchoe can carefully cultivate it at home according to the methods above. When the holiday comes around, giving it to relatives and friends is also a good choice.