What kind of growing environment does the kalanchoe prefer?

Common names of the kalanchoe

The kalanchoe is commonly known as "shou xing hua" (longevity star flower) and "hao yun hua" (good luck flower); its scientific name is also Christmas kalanchoe.

Habits of the kalanchoe

The kalanchoe belongs to the genus Kalanchoe in the Crassulaceae family. Its suitable growing period is summer.

It is native to Madagascar. It likes a warm, slightly humid environment with plenty of sunlight.

It is drought-tolerant, afraid of high temperatures, tolerant of partial shade, afraid of excessive moisture, and not cold-hardy. The suitable growing temperature is 15~25°C. In summer, when the high temperature exceeds 30°C, growth is hindered; in winter, when it is below 5°C, the leaves turn red and the flowering period is delayed.

For home care, kalanchoe is usually propagated by cuttings. Common pests and diseases include: leaf spot disease and scale insects.

Planting and care tips for the kalanchoe

Care tips for the kalanchoe

Repotting: Repot after spring every year, using a mixed soil of fertile garden soil, peat and sand. The potting soil should not be too wet.

Watering: During the growing period, water 1~2 times per week. In midsummer, watering should be controlled and ventilation should be noted. If it is hot and humid, the leaves are prone to turning yellow and dropping.

Fertilizing: During the growing period, fertilize once every half month. In autumn, when flower buds form, supplement with 1~2 applications of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer.

Light and temperature: The kalanchoe is a short-day plant and is relatively sensitive to photoperiod. For plants that are growing and developing well, giving short-day treatment (8~9 hours) for 3~4 weeks can produce flower buds and blooming.

Propagation methods for the kalanchoe

Cuttings: Best results are achieved in May-June or September-October. Select slightly mature fleshy stems, cut 5-6 cm long, insert into a sand bed, water and cover with plastic film. At a room temperature of 15-20°C, roots form 15-18 days after insertion, and they can be potted in 30 days. A 10 cm pot is commonly used. If there are not many seedlings, leaf cuttings can be used. Cut off healthy, plump leaves from the petiole, wait until the cut is slightly dry, then insert them obliquely or lay them flat on a sand bed, keeping humidity. After about 10-15 days, roots can grow from the base of the leaf and new plants will grow.

Suggested planting combinations: Huangli and Hongzhiyu

Note: If the indoor temperature is too low, the kalanchoe will only grow buds and delay flowering.