Kalanchoe

(Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana)

August 1996

DESCRIPTION:

Succulent. Fleshy leaves, opposite on stem, glossy dark green with toothed edges. Clusters of tiny tubular flowers on top of leafless stalk last for several weeks.

FLOWER COLORS:

Red, Yellow, Orange

AFTER FLOWERING:

Often discarded after flowering. Trim faded blooms & water regularly. Fertilize every 2-4 wks when new growth appears. Buds appear in fall. Give 14 hrs. of darkness for 3-4 weeks to reflower.

AVAILABLE:

December to February

CONTAINER:

Small container.

LIGHT:

Low, medium, high. Tolerates most light levels well.

WATER:

Normal. Water thoroughly, let soil dry to touch to a soil depth of 1/2".

TEMPERATURE:

Cool - medium. 50 - 70 (degrees F) days, 45 - 65 nights.

HUMIDITY:

Average

FERTILIZER:

Every 3 weeks while in flower.

SOIL MIX:

Porous soil mix , 1 part organic soil , 1 part peat moss, 2 parts coarse sand or Perlite.

PROPOGATION:

Tip cuttings in spring

SELECTION GUIDE:

Select sturdy, shapely plant with healthy foliage and bright, clear colored flowers. New flower buds desirable. Check leaf axils for insects. Avoid plants with disease or insect damage.

CARE:

Moderate. Lives well under average home conditions. Attractive with moderate maintenance.

OTHER CULTIVARS:

Many cultivars

PROBLEMS:

Scale insects: Scrape off. Isolate. If severe, dispose of plant.
Excess watering: Provide adequate drainage. Do not let plant sit in water.

COMMENTS:

Repot in spring. Difficult to reflower. Many related species are grown as foliage plants. Prefers high light.

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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