The Kalanchoe Behartii is a beautiful and widely popular succulent that is native to subtropical regions of Madagascar. Although this plant is not particularly difficult to care for, some considerations should be made when it comes to health and long-term success when it comes to maintaining its appearance in indoor gardens. With that said, we will discuss some tips on how to care for it below.
A Comprehensive Guide to Growing & Caring for Kalanchoe Behartii
How Much Sun Does a Kalanchoe Behartii Plant Need?
Kalanchoe plants are native to Madagascan and thrive in warm, sunny environments. They prefer bright, indirect light and can tolerate a few hours of direct sunlight each day. However, they should be protected from the intense, hot midday sun, as this can scorch their leaves and cause them to wilt. It is best to keep Kalanchoe Behartii in a south- or west-facing window, where they will receive plenty of bright, indirect light throughout the day. They can also be grown under grow lights or in a greenhouse if sufficient natural light is not available. It is important to pay attention to the light conditions in your home and adjust the placement of your Kalanchoe accordingly to ensure they receive the sunlight they need to thrive.
Proper Watering for Maximum Kalanchoe Behartii Health
When it comes to the water requirements of the Kalanchoe Behartii, the soil should be kept evenly moist but never soggy. This plant prefers a moderate amount of water when the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry. Over-watering can cause root rot and other diseases. To ensure proper drainage, it is recommended to use a pot with a drainage hole or add a layer of gravel to the bottom of the container.
Choosing the Right Soil Mix for Kalanchoe Behartii
In order for Kalanchoe Behartii to flourish, they do not require very fertile soil. However, they do need well-draining soil that is made up of potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand. The base of the pot should be coated with charcoal so that it does not become too acidic. To provide extra nutrients to the soil during the growing season, you can add organic fertilizer once every few weeks.
Understanding Kalanchoe Behartii Temperature Requirements
Temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal for the Kalanchoe Behartii. Although this plant is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, it does not do well in temperatures that are too extreme. This means that it should be kept away from drafts and air conditioning units and should never be exposed to temperatures below 45°F or above 85°F. This plant prefers humidity levels to be between 40-50%.
How to Prune Your Kalanchoe Behartii
Kalanchoe Behartii plants are pruned to get rid of dead and damaged leaves and stems as well as overgrown or leggy growth. The pruned plant will look neat and tidy and encourage new, healthy growth. To prune, you should use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to carefully cut off any dead or damaged leaves or stems from the bottom. Do not cut off more than a third of the plant’s foliage at one time since this can cause it stress.
Tips for Fertilizing Kalanchoe Behartii
The best way to care for a Kalanchoe Behartii plant is to fertilize it during the spring months when it is not flowering. It is recommended to use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks to ensure the plant is receiving the best nutrition. In order to keep a plant healthy, mix a small amount of fertilizer and water and pour it around the plant’s base.
A Guide to Propagating Kalanchoe Behartii for Maximum Results
There are many ways to propagate the Kalanchoe Behartii, but stem cuttings are the most popular method of propagating the plant. One of the most popular ways is through stem cuttings. You will need to take a stem from a healthy plant and include two or three leaves in the cutting. The cutting should then be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in moist potting soil. It should be kept in a sunny, warm spot and watered regularly.
Choosing the Right Pot for Your Kalanchoe Behartii
When selecting a pot for a Kalanchoe Behartii, choose one that is slightly larger than the original pot to accommodate the plant’s growth. Pots made of plastic or clay are ideal, as they allow for good drainage and aeration. Additionally, ensure that the pot has drainage holes, as a lack of drainage can lead to excessive moisture inside the pot, which can cause root rot.
Is it safe to move my Kalanchoe Behartii outside during the summer?
If you’re wondering if you can move your Kalanchoe Behartii outdoors during the summer, the answer is yes, as long as the temperature stays above 17℃ (60℉). However, be sure to acclimate it over 7 to 10 days and bring it back indoors before the first frost. Try to keep your Kalanchoe in an area with indirect sunlight and, if you live in an area prone to rain, place your Kalanchoe in a spot that’s covered during the rain.
Potential Pest Issues
Kalanchoe Behartii plants are generally low maintenance, but they can still be susceptible to common problems, diseases, and pests. These plants can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot, powdery mildew, and bacterial leaf spot. Aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs can be common pests that infest these plants. To help prevent these issues, it is important to ensure the plants are not overwatered and they receive the proper amount of sunlight.
Conclusion
Any home or garden will benefit from the beauty and simplicity of the Kalanchoe Behartii plant. As well as providing oxygen and purifying the air, it provides a variety of benefits that will make it a source of beauty and relaxation without requiring a lot of maintenance.
FAQs About Kalanchoe Plants
Can Kalanchoe plants be grown outdoors?
Most places in the world grow Kalanchoe plants as indoor plants, but in warmer climates, they can also be grown outdoors, such as USDA hardiness zones 9-11. Kalanchoe plants are native to Madagascar and are typically grown indoors. This type of plant can be grown in a container or in the ground, but it must be brought indoors during the colder months in order to protect it from frost.
What can I do to get my Kalanchoe plant to bloom again?
Kalanchoe plants typically bloom in the winter and early spring months. To encourage your plant to bloom again, it is important to provide it with plenty of bright, indirect light and to keep the soil evenly moist. You can also fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season to help promote healthy growth and blooming.
Are Kalanchoe plants toxic to pets?
If ingested, some varieties of Kalanchoe plants can be toxic to pets. Ingestion of Kalanchoe plants can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and breathing problems in pets. You should consult your veterinarian right away if you suspect your pet has ingested one. Keeping houseplants out of the reach of pets is always a good idea.
How big do Kalanchoe Plants get?
Kalanchoe plants grow in various sizes depending on their species and cultivars. Some species, like Kalanchoe beharensis, can grow up to 6 feet in height and width. While other species, like Kalanchoe pinnata and Kalanchoe daigremontiana, grow to only a few feet in height and width. They generally grow 1 to 3 feet tall.
How Long Can A Kalanchoe Plant Live?
There are several varieties of Kalanchoe plants available, ranging from the popular blossfeldiana to the less common varieties. Kalanchoe plants usually bloom for a few months before they need to be replaced. They are often grown as houseplants or as annuals in outdoor gardens. Kalanchoe plants can have shorter lifespans and only bloom for a few months before they need to be replaced. Kalanchoe thyrsiflora, for example, can thrive for several years with proper care and have a longer lifespan.
How To Prolong Kalanchoe Blooms
The right care is vital to prolonging Kalanchoe blooms and ensuring that they rebloom. Firstly, ensure that the plant receives adequate sunlight. Kalanchoes prefer bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct sunlight as well.
Second, water the plant regularly, but don’t overwater it. When watering, let the soil dry out slightly between waterings, and make sure the soil drains properly. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer should be used every few weeks during the growing season, along with deadheading to encourage new blooms.