Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea plants are beautiful, low-maintenance succulents that make excellent houseplants. They have thick fleshy leaves and come in a wide array of colors and shapes. Caring for Kalanchoe plants is straightforward and easy; with just the right amount of light, water, and fertilizer, they will thrive indoors. In this article, we will discuss the basics of how to take care of your Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea so that it remains healthy throughout the year.
Essential Tips for Keeping Your Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea Plant Healthy
The Right Amount of Sunlight for the Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea
Originally from Madagascar, kalanchoe plants thrive in warm, sunny climates. Direct sunlight can be tolerated for a few hours each day, but they prefer bright, indirect light. Their leaves can be scorched and wilted by the hot afternoon sun, but they should be protected from it. Ideally, Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea plants should be placed in a sunny room that receives plenty of indirect light throughout the day, such as a south- or west-facing window. It is also possible to grow them under grow lights or in a greenhouse if natural light is not sufficient. Make sure your Kalanchoe receives sufficient sunlight by paying attention to your home’s light conditions and placing them accordingly.
How to Properly Water Your Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea
The Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea is a type of succulent that is mostly drought tolerant. However, it does require some water to remain healthy. Generally, they should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. It is important never to let the soil get soggy as this can cause root rot. Watering should be done thoroughly, but not too often. To ensure the plant is getting enough water, it can be beneficial to put a saucer under the pot to catch any excess water.
Choosing the Right Soil Mix for Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea
To thrive, the Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea does not require very fertile soil. It does, however, require well-draining soil that is made up of quality potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand. Some gardeners add charcoal to the base of the pot before adding the soil mix to ensure it is not too acidic. You can add a thin layer of organic fertilizer once every few weeks during the growing period to provide extra nutrients to the soil.
Temperature Requirements for Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea
Although Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea does well in a wide range of temperatures, it has some specific temperature requirements for it to thrive. It should not be kept in temperatures outside that range because it can cause plant stress. It should be kept at temperatures between 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit with a minimum temperature of 55 degrees.
Pruning 101: How to Prune Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea for Optimal Results
Pruning of the Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea is a great way to maintain the health of the plant. Pruning helps to remove dead or damaged leaves and encourages new growth. Pruning also helps to reduce the size of the plant and keep it from becoming too large or unruly. It is important to prune the plant properly so that it doesn’t become stressed. Pruning should be done in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
Tips for Fertilizing Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea
You need to fertilize the Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea during the spring season when they are not flowering to provide the plant with the best possible nutrition. In order to use an organic liquid fertilizer every two weeks, you should use an organic liquid fertilizer. It is possible to provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to stay healthy if you mix a little fertilizer with water and pour it around its base.
Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea Propagation Made Easy
There are many ways to propagate the Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea, 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 Longiflora Coccinea
When choosing a pot for your Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea, make sure to select one that has adequate drainage holes. This species prefers having their roots slightly cramped, so opt for a pot that is 1-2 inches larger than the current pot your Kalanchoe is in. Make sure the material is breathable, such as terracotta, ceramic, or plastic. Avoid selecting a pot made of metal or wood, as they do not provide adequate aeration and drainage.
Summertime Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea: can they be moved outside?
It is possible to move your Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea outdoors if your area remains warm enough, with nighttime temperatures above 17°C (60°F). Gradually introduce it to the outdoors over a 7-10 day period, starting with a few hours of indirect sunlight each day and eventually being able to leave it outside overnight. Be sure to bring your Kalanchoe back inside before the first frost of the season, as well as any time that rain is expected.
Potential Pest Issues
Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea 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.
Final Thoughts
The Kalanchoe Longiflora Coccinea is a beautiful and easy-to-care-for succulent that is sure to bring life to any home or garden. Not only does it require minimal care, but it also produces a variety of benefits, like providing oxygen and purifying the air to give you a source of beauty and relaxation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kalanchoe Plants
Can Kalanchoe plants be grown outdoors?
Kalanchoe plants are native to Madagascar and are typically grown as indoor plants in most parts of the world. However, they can also be grown outdoors in warmer climates, such as in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. In these warmer climates, the plants can be grown in containers or in the ground, but they will need to be brought indoors during the colder months to protect them from frost.
What can I do to get my Kalanchoe plant to bloom again?
The best time to bloom your Kalanchoe is in the winter and early spring months. Make sure the soil is evenly moist and the light is bright, indirect, and even. To promote healthy growth and blooming, fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
Do Kalanchoe plants cause harm to pets?
Pets can become poisonous when they ingest certain varieties of Kalanchoe plants. The symptoms of poisoning in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing. It is important to contact your veterinarian right away if you suspect your pet has consumed a Kalanchoe plant. Houseplants should always be kept out of pets’ reach to prevent accidental consumption.
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?
As houseplants or annuals in outdoor gardens, Kalanchoe plants are widely known for their long-lasting blooms. The lifespans of Kalanchoe plants can vary depending on their variety and the way they are cared for. Many Kalanchoe varieties, such as Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, only bloom for a few months before they need to be replaced. If cared for properly, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora may continue to bloom for several years and have a longer lifespan.
Keeping Kalanchoe Blooms Longer
Kalanchoe plants need the right care in order to prolong their blooms and encourage them to rebloom. First of all, ensure the plant gets sufficient sunlight. Kalanchoes prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight as well.
Second, water the plant regularly, but do not overwater it. Water the plant well, but ensure the soil dries out slightly between waterings. During the growing season, fertilize the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every few weeks. Finally, deadhead the plant to encourage new blooms so that the plant can focus its energy on producing more blooms.