Kalanchoe flower care. Kalanchoe care

Kalanchoe blooming today is very popular with lovers of decorative succulents, which are also useful. The juice from the leaves of the plant has healing properties for human health. Kalanchoe care at home is not difficult, it is important to know the features of its cultivation.

There are a large number of species and varieties of Kalanchoe. Only a few of them are grown at home. Of particular interest are several plant varieties.

• Kalanchoe Blossfeld is the most common type, which is presented in most flower shops.
• Dergemona is a demanding plant that is more suitable for an experienced grower. It is often referred to as "room ginseng".
• Rosalina is an elegant terry variety, characterized by unpretentiousness. To form new buds, wilted flowers must be removed from the peduncles.
• Kalandiva - the variety has a very rapid flowering, not even under ideal conditions. Despite the high decorativeness, the plant is very unpretentious.

Whatever variety of Kalanchoe is chosen, you need to create a flower the necessary conditions growth, which will allow him to remain in good condition for a long time. Even unpretentious varieties quality life must be ensured.

Basic requirements for growing Kalanchoe

In general, there is nothing complicated in growing Kalanchoe. In order for a flower to grow successfully, it needs a regular change of pot as it grows, timely watering and care. Do not expose the plant to extreme lows and highs in temperature. For a flower, normal room temperature is optimal, but you should not put it near the battery and on a cold windowsill.

In winter, the temperature should not be below 12-15 degrees. Not being too picky about light, Kalanchoe can grow well even in rooms that are not suitable for other plants due to their shading. The flower does not need sunlight, and it feels great even with an ordinary lamp. daylight, delighting with rapid flowering.

Plant care at home

To create optimal conditions for Kalanchoe, you should familiarize yourself with the basic requirements of the plant and recommendations for caring for it. With good maintenance, it can bloom all year round.

Soil and pot requirements

Soil for Kalanchoe requires slightly acidic. If you use a ready-made substrate for succulents, which is sold in garden stores, you need to dilute it with fine sand by 1/5 part. It is better, of course, to prepare the soil yourself.

To do this, mix in equal parts the following components:

• humus;
• sand;
• charcoal;
• turf.

Additional fertilization when preparing the soil for Kalanchoe is not required, since at first the plant will be provided with nutrients that coal and humus are rich in, and then regular feeding will compensate for their lack.

The pot for the plant requires a wide and deep enough so that the roots do not tuck. You can use plastic or ceramic dishes. It is better to use a new container or one that has been frozen outside during the winter. Without this, it is highly likely that the flower may get sick due to fungal spores left on the walls of the pot after the last plant.

Watering, feeding and fertilizing

Despite the fact that the plant is native to dry areas, at home it needs to be provided with regular watering with settled water. room temperature. In summer, Kalanchoe consumes more water less in winter. Watering is carried out not according to the regime, but as needed. The fact that it is time to water the plant is determined by the moisture content of the topsoil. If it's dry, it needs to be moisturized.

They spend it by watering the flower along the edge of the pot. You can also immerse the container with Kalanchoe in a jar of water for 20 minutes so that the soil can be saturated. If the soil is wet, it should not be watered in reserve, as this will lead to the death of the flower due to rotting of the roots. The plant does not tolerate waterlogging at all.

Top dressing is necessary only in the spring and summer. It is held once a week. For the flower, special top dressing for succulents is used. You can also use complex mineral fertilizers for top dressing for indoor plants and a solution of rotted bird droppings, which is diluted in a ratio of 1:30.

Location, lighting and air humidity

It is optimal to choose a place for a flower that is light, but without direct contact with it. sunlight. The optimal length of daylight hours is 12 hours, and therefore in autumn and winter it is necessary to keep Kalanchoe in a room with the greatest illumination. It is impossible for the flower to be exposed to drafts, which are fatal to it.

Dry air is not dangerous for the plant, since Kalanchoe easily survives a moisture deficit. At the same time, the culture can tolerate high humidity.
air, but not soil.

Flowering and pruning Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe blooms in autumn and can last for a month, and in some varieties for two months. After all the flowers have withered, if necessary, pruning of the plant is carried out. It is necessary to do this, since in a year the flower is able to add up to 30 cm in height and width and become very voluminous. Also, uncontrolled growth leads to a deterioration in its appearance.

Young plants at the time of active vegetation are pinched to give them an attractive shape. For this purpose, the top 2 leaves are removed from the shoots. The procedure is carried out for several years, until the flower becomes the way they want to see it. Sanitary pruning implies the removal of 1/5 the number of leaves and shoots.

When forming Kalanchoe in the form of a tree, only one of the strongest shoots is left on the plant, and all lateral ones are cut off. The top of the main stem is not pinched with such pruning.

Advice. After flowering, flower stalks must be removed. For a month: set the plant on a shady window sill, do not water. Then move it to its original place, provide watering, and it will bloom again.

Transplant at home

Transplantation of young plants is carried out annually, as their development is very rapid, and they need a constant increase in the area of ​​the pot. After 3 years, Kalanchoe develops more slowly, and she only needs a transplant once every 3-4 years, since root system, even an adult plant, continues to grow and at some point outgrows the pot. If Kalanchoe begins to turn yellow, most likely, an increase in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe pot is urgently required. Optimal time transplants - the beginning of spring.

At the bottom of the pot, a drainage layer of expanded clay is made 2 cm thick. Then the soil is poured. The plant is transplanted by transshipment, trying not to disturb the already existing clod of earth. After the flower is transplanted, it is watered abundantly. Further watering is carried out in the same way as always.

After the purchase, it is necessary to transplant Kalanchoe into a new pot, regardless of the season, but only after the plant has completely faded. If the condition of the plant is deteriorating rapidly, and it must be urgently transferred to another pot, it is necessary to part with the flowers. Cut them off with sharp scissors.

Features of reproduction of Kalanchoe

At home, the reproduction of Kalanchoe is very simple. If the bush is in good condition and properly cared for, then a new plant can be obtained by cutting or rooting a leaf.

The stalk is cut from a young shoot so that it has at least 3 leaves. Use sterile scissors for cutting. The cut stalk is placed in water. So it will release roots much faster, and the process of its development will be easier to control than when planting in the ground immediately after cutting. As soon as the roots grow to a length of 2-3 centimeters, the cutting is planted in soil suitable for Kalanchoe.

When propagating with a leaf, a well-developed leaf with a petiole is taken and dug into a moist soil suitable for Kalanchoe. Next, it is important to ensure that the soil does not dry out. If everything is done correctly, the plant will release the roots in 2 weeks, and in a month a rosette of small leaves will appear. Care for Kalanchoe after rooting as an adult plant.

Pests, diseases and treatments

There are not many diseases that affect Kalanchoe. Most often, against the background of excessive moisture, bacterial infections can be encountered. After watering is normalized, the disease is eliminated. Pests sometimes become a serious problem for the grower.

With proper care, Kalanchoe at home grows and reproduces beautifully, delighting the owner with a beautiful and lush bloom. Do not forget about the value of the medicinal properties of Kalanchoe.

Kanalhoe or Kalanchoe - magnificent plant, which has unique healing properties and constantly competes with an equally outstanding house plant - aloe. AT traditional medicine, for example, with the help of Kalanchoe juice, it is customary to treat a runny nose. Many species of these beautiful plants are grown by flower growers for flowers that can continue to bloom throughout the winter period, and others because of the beautiful fleshy "wax" leaves.

General information about Kalanchoe.

Mankind has known about Kalanchoe (Latin kalanchoe) and its healing properties since ancient times. To date, scientists have documented more than 200 species of these plants, many of which are great for growing at home. Kalanchoe are succulents, shrubs or herbaceous perennials. They belong to the plant family Crassulaceae.

It is believed that the birthplace of Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe) is the island of Madagascar, but in nature this plant is found in subtropical and tropical parts of the planet, namely in the south of Asia, America, Australia, the Moluccas and New Guinea.

The flowers of different species of these plants are collected in inflorescences and differ from each other in color, shape, size, accuracy, etc. Their leaves are also not the same, but usually quite thick, dissected (strongly or weakly) and sessile or with a petiole.

Varieties of Kalanchoe. Types of Kalanchoe.

As I wrote above, more than 200 types of Kalanchoe are known to science, but we will consider only a few that are most often found in our homes.

Kalanchoe Blossfeld (lat. Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana) grows in wet tropical forests islands of Madagascar. These are low-leaved semi-shrubs, ranging in height from 15 cm to 1.5 m. They have dark green bare ovoid leaves up to 7 cm long and up to 4 cm wide, the edges of which are reddish. Small (up to 1-1.5 cm in diameter) but lush flowers of Kalanchoe Blossfeld are collected in inflorescences in the form of umbrellas. This plant can begin to bloom at any time of the year, but most often from February to May, and the flowering itself is plentiful and long. After the flowers have dried, it is necessary to cut off the flower stalks as much as possible, put Kalanchoe Blossfeld in partial shade in a cool room (14 0 C) and do not water for about 3 months. This time for the plant will be considered a period of rest or rest. Then move it to a warm, well-lit area, water it, and continue grooming as usual.

To date, breeders have bred many varieties of Kalanchoe Blossfeld, which differ from each other mainly in the color of the flowers:

1. Reds (Cassandra, Mary, Kerr, Amora);
2. Yellow (Karen, Goldstrike, Alexandra);
3. Pink (Dion, Avalon, Melanie, Cora, Katerina);
4. Orange (Naomi, Carmen, Arina);
5. Whites (Mie, Cora White, Simone 2000);
6. Other colors: pale pink, salmon, light red, two-tone.
7. In the process of flowering, the petals change color from soft peach to intense pink (Don Darcio).

Kalanchoe benta(lat. Kalanchoe Bentii) grows in the southern part of the Arabian Peninsula. These sparsely branched shrubs reach a height of 1m. Their leaves are large (up to 40 cm long), thick and have round shape. They are arranged in 6 pairs.

Kalanchoe Bent blooms in April and May very plentifully. Umbrella inflorescences have white flowers with back ovoid petals. it ornamental plant tolerates rooms with moderate coolness.

Kalanchoe Degremont (Bryophyllum Degremont, lat. Kalanchoe Daigremontiana) is a herbaceous perennial, reaching a height of 50cm. The fleshy gray-green above and variegated below the leaves of this plant have an oblong-elliptical shape, reaching 10 cm in length. They differ in that they fold slightly towards their central vein.

A feature of Kalanchoe Degremont is that the edges of its leaves are serrated, and in the recesses between the teeth themselves, brood buds are formed, from which children are formed over time - young plants with their small air roots. Over time, the grown-up children fall to the ground, take root and live as separate plants. Kalanchoe Degremont blooms quite plentifully and mainly in winter. The inflorescences of this Kalanchoe are paniculate. Corolla short (up to 2 cm), pink. The flower petals are also small - 0.5-0.7 cm.

Kalanchoe pinnate (lat. Kalanchoe pinnatum or Kalanchoepinnata) is a herbaceous perennial growing in the tropics of the Old and New Worlds (Africa, Asia, America, Australia, etc.) at an altitude of about 1000 m above sea level. In nature, this plant grows on stony soils. The light green leaves of Kalanchoe pinnate are rather fleshy, grow on short cuttings and have blunt teeth on the edges.

The lower leaflets are simple, red, serrate, ovoid, and their edges are rounded and serrated. Young leaves (upper) are pinnate (have 3-5 leaflets). This Kalanchoe blooms with drooping flowers irregularly and abundantly. Corolla greenish white. Unlike Kalanchoe Degremont, it does not have children on its sheets. Red-brown flower petals are triangular in shape, attached to a red-green calyx. The juice of this plant is used for medicinal purposes.

Many more types of Kalanchoe grow in the houses of our flower growers:

• Kalanchoe Beharskoe (lat. Kalanchoe Beharensis);
• Kalanchoe Felt (lat. Kalanchoe Tomentosa);
• Kalanchoe Marble (lat. Kalanchoe Marmorata), which is also called mottled;
• Kalanchoe Large-flowered (lat. Kalanchoe Grandiflora);
• Kalanchoe Mangina (lat. Kalanchoe Manginii);
• Kalanchoe paniculata (lat. Kalanchoe Thyrsiflora);
• Kalanchoe Flaming (lat. Kalanchoe Flammea) or fiery red;
• Kalanchoe tubular (lat. Kalanchoe Tubiflora) or tubular;
• Kalanchoe Dissected (lat. Kalanchoe Laciniata) or lobed;
• And others.

Caring for Kalanchoe or growing Kalanchoe at home.

Compared to many houseplants, such as violet or orchid, Kalanchoe is quite easy to care for. Is not demanding plant and therefore it is very common among flower lovers.

Lighting for Kalanchoe.
Kalanchoe loves good diffused lighting for 12 hours a day. For this, from spring to autumn, places on the western or eastern windowsills are best suited. So that the plant does not feel a lack of light, put it on the southern windowsill in winter, but this should not be done in summer, because due to direct bright sun rays burns will appear on its leaves. Also, in low light, the plant can be illuminated with lamps. In gratitude, Kalanchoe will delight you with long flowering.

Temperature regime for Kalanchoe.
In a room, Kalanchoe feels great at any temperature that is suitable for humans. In summer, he needs 16-27 0 C, and in winter - 14-18 0 C, which contributes to the laying of new buds. But in no case do not allow a strong drop in temperature (10 0 C and below), as the plant can get sick and die.

Proper watering kalanchoe.
Kalanchoe should be watered when it dries upper layer soil. In this case, the complete drying of the soil should not be allowed, as this leads to a strong fall of the leaves. Water the plant with soft settled water for 2-3 days at room temperature.

From spring to late summer, Kalanchoe is watered moderately, and less often in winter, but it is not worth completely stopping soil moisture. If in winter the plant stands near heating appliances, for example, near a battery, then water it a little more often, as the soil dries out faster, but do not overfill it, as the soil may turn sour and Kalanchoe will die.

Air humidity for Kalanchoe.
The dry air of apartments for Kalanchoe is not terrible, since all types of these plants accumulate vital moisture in fleshy leaves covered with many hairs or a wax coating. This means that, unlike, for example, spathiphyllums, they do not need constant spraying. To remove dust from the leaves, they can be periodically wiped with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth, but if the summer is hot, then spraying from a spray bottle will not hurt.

Fertilizer or dressing Kalanchoe.
I feed my Kalanchoe Blossfeld with liquid fertilizer purchased at a flower shop, designed for cacti. I do this only in the summer (2-4 times a month) and in the fall (1 time) during the budding period, that is, when the flowers are laid.

Dropping leaves and pruning Kalanchoe.
Many people ask me what to do with the falling leaves of Kalanchoe? Do not worry, in most cases this is normal, as many species do this on purpose. In nature, their leaves fall off and take root, after which a new plant is formed. If desired, you can also plant them in separate pots or next to the mother plant.

Some types of Kalanchoe produce long shoots that hang from the pot. If you don't like it, then cut them off and you can also plant them, after which you will get a new plant.

Flowering Kalanchoe.
In order for Kalanchoe to quickly become covered with magnificent flowers, in the spring and summer, provide it with bright lighting for no longer than 8-10 hours a day. But during the flowering itself, in order for the flowers to be saturated, the lighting must be bright and not less than 12 hours. After flowering, cut off excess stems, which can also be used for planting.

The flowers of many Kalanchoe species can be cut and placed in a vase of water, where they will keep fresh for several weeks.

There is also a little secret that allows you to achieve re-bloom kalanchoe. To do this, the plant needs to create rest conditions, that is, reduce watering, put in a cool room and reduce daylight hours to 8-9 hours. This can be done by covering the plant with a black cap or moving the plant pot into a dark, cool room for 15-16 hours every day. He needs to create such conditions from 6 to 8 weeks, and then put him in a well-lit room and water more often.

Soil for Kalanchoe.
For my Kalanchoes, I use a quality store-bought cactus or succulent mix. Many sites recommend epiphytic Kalanchoe for good flowering add manure to the soil. If you, like me, do not have such an opportunity, just fertilize the plants correctly.

For young plants, you can use this self-mixed soil:

1. Turf land - 4 parts;
2. Deciduous land - 2 parts;
3. Decayed peat or coniferous land - 1 part;
4. River sand - 1 part;
5. Dry cow dung- a little.

Kalanchoe transplant.
Kalanchoe does not require annual transplants into new soil. Do this only when the plant has "grown out of the pot."

Kalanchoe is transplanted into a new pot, the diameter of which is 2-3 cm larger than the previous one. It must have drainage holes in the bottom. Put a layer of expanded clay, small gravel, pieces of brick or ceramics on its bottom.

Mature plants are best transplanted by transshipment, that is, remove the plant from the old pot along with the soil and place it in the center of the new one. Then carefully add the missing soil and water generously. The next watering is carried out after the topsoil has dried.

To plant young plants, fill the ground over the drainage and simply stick them into the soil, and if they are kids, then put them on top of the ground. Water the young plants abundantly and after a while they will take root.

Reproduction of Kalanchoe.

There are 3 ways in which Kalanchoe is propagated, namely:

1. Cuttings (stem or leaf);
2. Children (those varieties that have them);
3. Seeds.

Propagation of Kalanchoe by cuttings.
Fallen old leaves and stems can also serve as cuttings in Kalanchoe. To do this, simply plant them in wet soil or sand, and then create greenhouse conditions by covering them with a plastic cup (remember to remove it daily to ventilate). Over time, the plants will take root.

Reproduction of Kalanchoe by children.
Some types of Kalanchoe are viviparous, forming many children on the leaves, which, if not removed, fall off themselves and, falling on the soil, take root. You can collect them and plant them in separate pots.

Propagation of Kalanchoe by seeds.
Seeds of Kalanchoe begin to propagate from the beginning of February to the end of March. To do this, they are simply sown in moist, deciduous soil and lightly pressed down. Like strawberry seeds, they do not need to be buried. Then they are covered with glass, a jar or a cut plastic bottle thus creating greenhouse conditions. But do not forget that they need to be ventilated by removing the shelter for 20-30 minutes every day. Lighting is not necessary for the seeds, so they are shaded by covering them with paper. The temperature for growing Kalanchoe seeds is 15-20 0 C. Also make sure that the earth does not dry out. Watering the seeds is best done by spraying with a spray bottle. After the appearance of the first shoots, the shelter and shading are removed, and after another month they can be dived into a box (seated over long distances so that their roots do not intertwine). Young Kalanchoes can be planted in separate pots when several leaves form on them. The pots should be small so that the roots of the plants can completely wrap around the earthen clod by the end of summer. In mid-summer, plant bushes begin to form, pinching the top. This will allow several shoots (4-6 pieces) to develop well at once. And already at the end of summer and the beginning of autumn they can be transplanted into large pots. To do this, use the transfer method. The first flowers on such Kalanchoes usually appear the next year after sowing.

Problems in growing Kalanchoe.

With proper care, your Kalanchoe will not get sick, but there are different things, and sometimes you need to know what could cause the disease and how to deal with it.

Mold has appeared on Kalanchoe.
Most often this happens due to excessive watering, especially at low temperatures.

Powdery mildew or downy mildew appeared on Kalanchoe.
This can happen if the plant is watered very frequently at high temperatures.

Leaves fall on Kalanchoe, exposing the stem.
Do not worry, for many species of these plants this is normal. In nature, they can reproduce by shedding their leaves. If this is not the case, then most likely the plant stands near the battery and is constantly blown with hot dry air. Try to put it closer to the window.

P.S.
Beautiful, large and flowering Kalanchoe will be admired by all your relatives and friends.

Interesting on YouTube:

Ecology of life. Under natural conditions, Kalanchoe grows in Australia, America, Africa and Southeast Asia, the plant itself is classified as a succulent.

Under natural conditions, Kalanchoe grows in Australia, America, Africa and Southeast Asia, the plant itself is classified as a succulent. The plant has recently become very popular among lovers of indoor floriculture. Decorative types of Kalanchoe have gained great popularity, and all thanks to the beautiful and long flowering.

decorative flower kalanchoe care and at home it does not require so much, the main thing is to follow a number of simple rules and the plant will delight you for more than one year. You can buy this ornamental plant in almost any flower shop, as it has long been grown on an industrial scale due to its growing popularity.

Lighting mode and location
Since the plant comes from the tropics, it needs good lighting and a long daylight hours. The ideal length of daylight hours for this plant is at least 12 hours, but if the daylight hours are shorter, the plant needs additional illumination with artificial light sources, this is especially true for flowering species in the autumn-winter period.
A suitable place for Kalanchoe are window sills facing east or west. The plant is not harmed by direct sunlight.

Temperature regime
perfect temperature regime for Kalanchoe, temperatures can be considered in the range from 18 to 28 ° C in the spring-summer period and from 14 to 20 ° C in the autumn-winter period. In principle, the plant is so unpretentious that minor fluctuations in temperature have absolutely no effect on it.

The only thing in this case is not to allow a long drop in temperature below 10 ° C, otherwise the plant may get sick and subsequently die.

At a temperature of 14 to 18°C, the plant produces buds for further flowering. Drafts do not have any effect on Kalanchoe.

How to water Kalanchoe at home
Watering the plant is best done with settled water at room temperature. Watering is done as the topsoil dries out. Prolonged drying of the earthy coma should not be allowed, as the plant will react by dropping leaves.
Short-term drying will not have a detrimental effect on the plant, since the succulent and fleshy stems and leaves of the plant contain enough moisture to survive a slight drought.

In spring and summer, the plant should be watered 2 times a week; in winter, watering is reduced. It is also not worth pouring Kalanchoe, as with prolonged overflows, the plant may begin to rot.

Air humidity
Kalanchoe does not need spraying, but if you wipe the leaves or spray the plant on hot days, this will have a beneficial effect on the growth and development of the plant.
It is absolutely impossible to spray and wipe Kalanchoe species with pubescent leaves; stains may appear on them from water getting on the leaves. And for these plants, it is preferable to keep in conditions of low humidity.

Soil Requirements
The plant is not demanding on the composition of the soil, the main thing is that there is no stagnant water in the pot, and the soil is sufficiently loose. Optimal for growing this plant is considered a universal soil, consisting in equal parts of turf and leafy soil, humus and sand. You can buy ready-made universal primer.

Top dressings and fertilizers
This unpretentious plant needs fertilizer only during the period of budding and flowering, the budding period occurs in the autumn months, and Kalanchoe blooms in summer. The composition of the plant is suitable for complex fertilizers for cacti or succulents. Such fertilizers should be used once a week, using half the full dose.
If you use separate solutions of mineral and organic fertilizers, then the top dressing regimen is as follows: organic top dressing the plant is fertilized once every two weeks, and mineral - once a week.

Plant pruning

If the plant has shed its lower leaves, or you want it to look like a neat bush, Kalanchoe should be cut off or pinched off the tops at a young age.

The remaining parts of the plant after pruning can be used as cuttings.

Kalanchoe care after purchase
It is generally accepted that the plant should be transplanted immediately after purchase, in the case of Kalanchoe, this is not necessary. The main thing is to make sure that the soil in the pot does not retain moisture, and the water does not stagnate in the pot. If everything is in order, the plant does not need to be transplanted.
After purchasing, locate the plant according to the above recommendations and follow the rest of the recommendations.

Kalanchoe transplant at home
Quite often, when growing this plant, beginners have questions about how to transplant Kalanchoe and how often should this be done? The plant should be transplanted if it has grown well, and the transplant process itself will not be difficult.
If you just want to transplant the plant into a larger pot, don't choose a very large one. It is enough if the pot is 3 cm larger in diameter than the previous one. If you want to divide the plant and get two or more from one, take small pots.
A good layer of drainage should be poured at the bottom of the selected container, about 3-4 cm high, this is necessary to avoid stagnation of water in the pot.
If you don’t want to bother with preparing the substrate, take ready-made, for cacti or for succulents.
Further, if you are just transplanting a plant, transplant using the transshipment method, and fill the voids in the pot with new soil.

If you are planting the plant, after removing it from the pot, gently shake off the soil from the roots, and divide the plant into as many parts as you like with a sharp knife. Sprinkle the cuts with crushed coal and plant the plants in new pots. After disembarking, compress the ground and water the Kalanchoe thoroughly.

Care for Kalanchoe in the winter
With the onset of winter, the plant needs a slight adjustment in the rules of care. The air temperature in the room needs to be slightly lowered to lay the buds and buds. But do not allow the temperature to drop below 10 ° C, the plant may die.
AT winter time the length of daylight hours decreases, and the plant should be illuminated with fluorescent lamps, or rearranged to the southern windows.
You should also take care that Kalanchoe is not constantly under the currents of warm and dry air, its leaves may begin to dry and immunity will decrease. Watering in winter is reduced to once every 10 days.

Kalanchoe blooming Blossfeld and Kalandiva - home care

These two species are considered the most common in indoor floriculture. The basic rules of care are relevant for both flowering and non-flowering species, but there are several aspects that we will discuss below.

Kalanchoe flowering care does not require so much, but if you want the plants to bloom for a long time and a lot, use our tips.
The main thing for flowering plants is a sufficient amount of light, since with a lack of light, alas, there will be no flowering.
In winter, the plant should be kept at an air temperature of 15-18 ° C, for laying flower buds, since they do not form in hotter conditions.
And the most important condition for flowering is regular pruning of plants after flowering. Moreover, pruning should be quite strong, you need to leave two or three pairs on each branch. lower leaves. Thus, you also rejuvenate the plant. The cuttings remaining after pruning can be used in plant propagation.published

There are very few medicinal plants that have a beautiful decorative look, but Kalanchoe, which is cared for at home, is precisely this plant. The number of varieties of this flower, belonging to the Crassulaceae family, is more than 200 species.

General information

Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe) - perennial succulent, height from a few centimeters to 4 meters, depending on the species. Among the representatives of the genus there are herbaceous plants and shrubs, as well as epiphytes and lianas.

Under natural conditions, these plants are common on the islands of Madagascar, New Guinea, in the tropical part of Australia and America, and also in the subtropics and tropics of Asia.

The plant has fleshy and succulent leaves, petiolate or sessile. Its flowers are collected in umbellate many-flowered inflorescences, located most often at the top, less often on the sides of the plant. Flower color can be purple, white, yellow, bright red. It blooms profusely and for a long time, usually in the autumn-winter period, when you really want to add colors to life.

Varieties and types

(Kalanchoe beharensis) - herbaceous perennial having non-branching bare stems. In places where fallen leaves are attached to the stems, scars can be found.

The leaves of this species are slightly serrate or almost entire, pubescent, with a grayish wax coating, triangular or wedge-shaped. The length of the leaves is 10-20 cm, the width is 5-10 cm. The inflorescences are umbellate, located at the top.

The flowers are small, pubescent, yellow. The flower petals are linear, the corolla tube is pitcher-shaped. This species is native to Madagascar. The plant is highly decorative and suitable for keeping in cool rooms.

(Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) is one of the most common and beautiful views. It also comes from Madagascar.

The flower is a low (up to 30 cm), erect, slightly branched shrub. The leaves of this species are ovate, smooth, dark green in color with reddish wavy edges. The length of the leaves can be up to 7 cm, width - up to 4 cm. Numerous flowers, up to 1 cm in diameter and about 1.3 cm long, are accumulated in umbellate inflorescences.

It blooms for a long time and abundantly, most often from February to May. The flowers of the original plant are red. Breeders bred new garden molds and ampelous varieties of Kalanchoe Blossfeld, striking with their bright and decorative flowers white, yellow, orange, pink and purple.

Kalanchoe Bent (Kalanchoe bentii)

Also called kalanchoe bristle-leaved - a slightly branched powerful shrub, up to 1 meter high. The leaves are thick, large (up to 40 cm long), rounded, grow in 6 pairs.

White flowers, having a length of up to 2.5 cm, are collected in inflorescences-umbrellas. The petals of the flowers are obovate, the corolla tube is swollen at the base and half as long as the petals. The flowering period is April-May.

Homeland is the southern part of the Arabian Peninsula. The plant is highly decorative and grows well in cool rooms.

(Kalanchoe tomentosa), often referred to as "cat's ears" - upright shrubs with densely pubescent shoots. The leaves are sessile, oblong-ovate, entire, having a length of up to 6 cm and a width of up to 1.6 cm.

The umbellate inflorescence consists of small flowers with 12 mm petals and a corolla tube. Abundantly flowering highly ornamental plant, whose homeland is the central part of Madagascar.

Kalanchoe Degremontiana (Kalanchoe daigremontiana)

Another name Bryophyllum Degremona (Bryophyllum daigremontianum) is a herbaceous perennial, up to half a meter tall, whose birthplace is the island of Madagascar. The leaves are fleshy, oblong-oval in shape, up to 10 cm long, slightly curled along the central vein, with a serrated edge.

The upper side of the leaf is gray-green with purple spots, the lower side is variegated. The flowers are collected in a panicle, have petals 0.7 cm long and a corolla tube about 1.7 cm long, painted pink. The period of abundant flowering is the winter months.

This species belongs to viviparous, since brood buds are “born” in the recesses along the edge of the leaf, from which young children with aerial roots are formed here. Falling off the leaf and falling on the soil, the children immediately take root and begin rapid independent development.

(Kalanchoe marmorata) - 50 cm shrubs, also known as or Somali . The leaves of this species are 8-10 cm long, obovate in shape, tapering at the base, having a notched-toothed edge.

The green color of the leaves eventually turns into a grayish color with large lilac or brown spots. The white flowers of the plant form umbellate inflorescences. The corolla tube is tetrahedral, up to 8 cm long. The flower petals are shaped like an elongated egg. The flowering period is January-April. Homeland are the mountains in Ethiopia.

(Kalanchoe grandiflora) is a semi-shrub with sessile lobed-toothed leaves that have a light green color that acquires a reddish tint in the sun.

Plant height is about 60 cm. Light yellow flowers with an expanded corolla tube up to 1.2 cm long and ovoid petals are collected in an umbrella inflorescence. Abundant flowering comes in May. This species is native to India.

Kalanchoe Mangina (K. manginii)

Also called bryophyllum Mangina (Bryophyllum manginii) is an ampelous variety, characterized by large drooping bell-shaped flowers of pink color. Blooms in spring.

(K. thyrsiflora) - densely leafy herbaceous perennials up to 60 cm high. Grow wild on the rocky slopes of South Africa. The leaves of this species are obovate in shape, up to 15 cm long and up to 7 cm wide, painted in a silvery-white color.

The lower leaves form a dense rosette, while the upper ones are less common and smaller. yellow flowers with a tetrahedral jug-shaped swollen corolla tube and small rounded petals, collected in a panicle inflorescence. It starts blooming in April-May. Propagated by bulbous buds formed after flowering.

Or fiery red (K. flammea), also known as Kalanchoe bluish (Kalanchoe glaucescens) is a slightly branched herbaceous perennial native to Somalia. The height of this species is 30-40 cm. The leaves, having a length of 6-8 cm and a width of 2-3 cm, are obovate in shape, narrowed at the base with a serrated edge.

The name of the species well emphasizes the color of the flowers of the plant. They are bright red-orange in color, up to 2 centimeters in diameter. Inflorescences are umbellate, apical. Flaming Kalanchoe is great for growing in pots in cool rooms.

Pinnate Kalanchoe (K. pinnata)

Herbaceous perennial up to 1 meter high, which is found on stony soil on the island of Madagascar. Known Names - Cotidelon pinnate , Crassula pinnate , Briophyllum pinnate . Different leaves grow on the same plant. Below - ovoid, with a heart-shaped base, simple, light green in color with a serrate and red edge.

The upper leaves are pinnately dissected or divided into 3-5 lobes. All leaves of the plant are juicy and fleshy, arranged oppositely. The flowers are drooping, have a greenish-white corolla tube about 3.5 cm long and triangular, brick-red petals. Flowering is abundant, but not regular. Like Kalanchoe Degremont, it belongs to the viviparous species.

Brood buds are also formed in the recesses of the edge of the sheets. Young plants with aerial roots are formed from them, which, falling off and falling into the ground, quickly take root.

Or tubular (K. tubiflora (Harv.) Raym.-Hamet) - perennial herbaceous shrubs, up to 70 cm high. Numerous narrow leaves are up to 13 cm long and up to 0.6 cm wide, painted grayish-green with dark brown spots .

In the upper part there is a large number of brood buds. The flowers are red, with a corolla tube up to 2.5 cm long. The plant is highly ornamental and widely distributed in home cultivation. This species is native to Madagascar.

In culture, many varieties have been bred that differ in plant height: tall - from 25 to 30 cm, medium tall - from 15 to 20 cm and short - from 10 to 15 cm. - red, fiery red, orange, dark purple, light purple, light yellow and white.

May also be found under the name kalanchoe lobata (Kalanchoe laciniata DC.), popularly called "deer horns," is a herbaceous perennial with fleshy and succulent shoots that grow vertically at first and begin to lodge over time.

Representatives of this species are found in nature in the subtropical and tropical regions of Asia, as well as in Africa. It also has the name Kalanchoe serrated.

The leaves are fleshy, deeply dissected, have a serrated edge and a light green color with a waxy coating. It blooms profusely with tubular yellow-orange flowers.

Care for this species requires special, limited watering, with complete drying of the earthen coma and good lighting. Because of its drooping shoots, it can be used as an ampelous plant. In India, this species is widely used by the people for medical purposes.

Kalanchoe home care

Before buying indoor Kalanchoe, you need to carefully examine the plant. Its leaves should be juicy and elastic. It is advisable to give preference to specimens with flowers that have not yet blossomed, but have formed. In this case, the color of the flowers can already be determined, and such a choice will allow you to enjoy the long flowering of the plant already at home.

Since Kalanchoe is a plant of the tropics, it loves a lot of light, however, at the same time, it needs a short daylight hours. It is recommended to cover the flowerpot after dinner and open it only after 10 am.

In the period from spring to autumn, it is best to place the plant on the western or eastern windows. In winter, he will feel better on the south side. Flowering Kalanchoe needs special care, it needs bright lighting, so in the autumn-winter months it is necessary to provide the plant with additional illumination until the 12-hour daylight hours are reached. AT summer time Kalanchoe enough 9-hour daylight hours.

The acquired plant, which was cared for in the partial shade of the store, must be accustomed to bright light gradually in order to avoid sunburn by the plant.

The plant does not like heat. Feels good in summer at a temperature of 20-22 degrees, in winter - 10-12 degrees. Kalanchoe, which was cared for when the temperature drops below 10 degrees, may die.

Watering Kalanchoe

Since the plant is a succulent, it can accumulate moisture in the leaves and stems, which is why moderate watering is preferable. In hot summer days watered abundantly, allowing the topsoil to dry out. In winter, watering is carried out less often, but do not allow the substrate to dry completely, as this is fraught with leaf fall. Water is taken settled, soft, at room temperature. You can pour it both from above into the pot and into the pan.

Thanks to the accumulated moisture, it feels great in dry indoor air and does not need to be sprayed. Spraying will be useful only on especially hot days. The leaves of the plant can be gently wiped with a damp cloth to get rid of dust.

Fertilizer for Kalanchoe

Plant care in the spring-summer period is carried out with top dressing according to the standard scheme - 1 time in 2 weeks, while mineral and organic fertilizers alternate.

You can use fertilizers for cacti and succulents, but it is recommended to dilute them with water until a slightly lower concentration is reached than indicated in the instructions. Top dressing is repeated during the period of laying buds.

pruning kalanchoe

Kalanchoe is formed by pruning long shoots. Some forms have stems that, when they reach a certain length, bend over the rim of the pot. Cuttings of these species are planted in several pieces along the edge of a pot or bowl. Over time, they take root, grow, bend and hang down. During flowering, the plant takes on a very decorative appearance.

Even non-flowering plants look original and decorative, the stems of which hang down through holes in the walls of the pot.

To achieve earlier flowering of Kalanchoe, you should reduce daylight hours to 9-10 hours. However, intensive lighting is necessary to obtain bright and large flowers. There are species whose cut inflorescences can stand in water for up to 3 weeks without fading and without losing their beauty.

After flowering is complete, the stems of the plant are pruned to maintain a neat appearance. The cut parts can be used for cuttings.

Kalanchoe transplant

Replant the plant about once every 2-3 years to ensure soil renewal or to increase the size of the pot, which no longer fits the roots of the plant. It is best to transplant in the spring. Can't be disturbed and transplanted flowering plant.

The soil for planting is suitable neutral or slightly acidic, having a pH in the range of 5.5-6.5. For young plants, a mixture of soddy, deciduous soil, sand and rotted peat, taken in a ratio of 4: 2: 1: 1, is well suited. Peat can be replaced with coniferous soil. The bottom of the pot must have good drainage.

Kalanchoe breeding

The plant can be propagated by seeds, stem and leaf cuttings, and certain types, forming children - children.

It is easiest to breed with children. The children separated from the mother plant are planted in the soil, and the plant begins its growth and development.

Reproduction of Kalanchoe leaf

Falling leaves can be rooted by placing them in damp sand and covering them with a glass.

Very soon, roots will appear, and a new young plant will form.

Propagation of Kalanchoe by seeds

Reproduction by seeds is a longer and laborious process, however, it is quite feasible. Seeds are sown on top of moist, light, deciduous soil, lightly pressed down without falling asleep with earth, covered with glass and shaded with paper. Care of seedlings is necessary at a temperature of 16-18 degrees. Carry out daily ventilation twice a day. If necessary, water with warm and settled water.

Glass and paper are removed as soon as shoots appear. A month later, the resulting plants dive into boxes and cover with glass for several days. When young Kalanchoe grow several leaves, they are seated in small (about 7 cm) containers.

The substrate is prepared from hardwood, sod land, compost and sand, taken in a ratio of 4:2:1:1. Perhaps the preparation of such a mixture: peat - 4 parts, sod land- 1 part, sand - 1 part.

To form a bush, you need to pinch the top. In August, young Kalanchoes are transplanted into larger pots. For planting, they take a mixture consisting of compost, humus, hardwood and sand, which are mixed in a ratio of 4: 2: 1: 1. Plants obtained from seeds bloom a year after sowing.

Kalanchoe medicinal properties

For their medicinal properties Kalanchoe received the names - "tree of life" and "room ginseng". The population of Madagascar has long discovered the medicinal possibilities of the plant and widely used them.

The juice obtained from the leaves of Kalanchoe pinnate has anti-inflammatory properties, without irritating either the skin or mucous membranes. Therefore, it has found wide application in dentistry and gynecology to stimulate the regeneration of mucous membranes and damaged tissues. 2-3 drops of Kalanchoe juice applied to the nipples of a nursing mother will help get rid of their cracks in 4-5 days.

The juice of this plant is used to treat wounds, trophic ulcers, frostbite, burns, bedsores, stomatitis, periodontal disease and tonsillitis. The use of Kalanchoe is also recommended for diseases of the digestive system, migraines, infectious diseases, influenza, choking cough. Effective in the treatment of acne, warts, boils.

A crushed leaf will help get rid of a toothache. The proven medicinal properties of the juice from this plant are also evidenced by the fact that it can be purchased at pharmacies. However, it should be borne in mind that treatment with this drug can only be started after consultation with your doctor.

Now in the flower departments there is a good assortment of decorative representatives of this species. To take a different look at this home plant, as well as tell you how to care for Kalanchoe at home, our article will help you.

The remote island of Madagascar is considered to be the homeland of this amazing plant, but among more than 200 species of Kalanchoe, most grow in the countries of South Africa, Asia and even America. Despite such a geographical distribution, family ties between plants are difficult to trace, because most of them do not have characteristic features and they don't look alike at all.

Only a few species of this plant are suitable for breeding at home, and two main areas are classified:

• decorative flowering;
• decorative leafy.

The former can boast of small but numerous bright flowers collected in a special kind of inflorescences called panicles. The color can vary from snow-white to intense red. There are even special types plants with double petals.

Blooming Kalanchoe is a wonderful sight, especially since you can enjoy it for several months in a row.

Decorative leafy Kalanchoes are also a good home decoration option. Distinctive feature- fleshy leaves various forms with proper care, they can attract attention no worse than flowering plants. At the same time, you can easily shape the appearance of the bush, because the plant is very loyal to pruning and quickly recovers.

The main property that determined its worldwide popularity is the therapeutic effect. Kalanchoe juice is used to treat a wide variety of diseases, from the common cold to tuberculosis. It is necessary to use homemade tinctures or pharmaceutical preparations based on this plant after consulting a doctor so as not to turn the benefits to the detriment of yourself and loved ones.

Varieties of Kalanchoe and their features

Kalanchoe, being both an ornamental and medicinal plant of the succulent genus, is more popular with many flower growers. He conquered the flower with his riot of colors, a variety of forms of leaves and flowers.

Photos will help to distinguish between popular varieties, and when buying, it is better to ask the seller about the true name of the plant being purchased, because caring for blooming kalanchoe at home will be slightly different from the traditional cultivation of the deciduous version.

Bright representatives of domestic species are:

The great advantage of this plant can be called a good decorative effect, coupled with medicinal properties and ease of care.

How to choose the right plant

In order for the plant to please with its impeccable appearance for a long time, you must carefully familiarize yourself with the basic rules of choice. First of all, you need to take a good look at the plant. The leaves should be elastic to the touch, uniform in color and without a gray coating on the surface. All of the above defects may indicate Kalanchoe disease.

The back side of the leaf is carefully considered, on which the main enemies of indoor plants - aphids and scale insects - can be located.

The plant should be compact in size, without gaps on the stem and cuttings. Decorative Kalanchoe should be with the maximum number unblown buds, if already faded ones predominate, then it will soon go into a dormant period.

It is best to buy a flowering plant at the beginning of winter, when it is just beginning to bloom. A conscientious seller must remove dried flowers in time to allow new ones to bloom.

It is advisable to place the acquired Kalanchoe in a two-week “quarantine” in order to make sure that it is in absolute health and not infect the rest of the plants with possible newcomer ailments.

Care for Kalanchoe at home

Despite the unpretentiousness, there are special requirements that will help trouble-free growth and development. It should not be forgotten that Kalanchoe is a tropical plant, so possible conditions should also provide protection from drying out and low temperatures. Read more about the main nuances of the content - later in our article.

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Basic care for Kalanchoe:

• Watering the plant is carried out no more than once every three days and after some drying of the topsoil. Kalanchoe reacts very sharply to waterlogging, rot and fungal infections appear on the roots. When watering, it is better to be guided by the rule: it is better not to top up than to pour. Excess water is immediately drained, contact with leaves and flowers is not allowed.
• Spraying is also not recommended. The plant is also afraid of high humidity, which is simply amazing for a tropical representative. If there is a need to wipe the leaves from dust and dirt, it is better to wipe them dry after the procedure.
• A Kalanchoe transplant is needed at least once every two years. The plant is actively growing not only in height, its root system also requires an increase in space. Transplantation is carried out by transshipment, it is desirable to use the same soil.
• The temperature for comfortable growth of Kalanchoe should be in the range of 15-35ºС. A tropical guest can withstand a short-term “cooling” of up to 10-15 degrees, but below + 5 it will simply die.
• The formation of the bush also needs to be given enough attention. Rapid growth will allow you to experiment, especially since the plant calmly tolerates such manipulations. For some types of Kalanchoe, pruning is an integral part compulsory care, otherwise you can forget about the attractive appearance.
• Lighting for the normal development of the plant should be sufficient, but in moderation. Direct sun can damage sensitive leaves and flowers, but in poor light, the plant also dies. A reasonable measure would be the location on the windowsill on the east and southeast side in the summer. In winter, this criterion is not significant, since the sun's rays will not be able to damage the plant.
• Top dressing is desirable special preparations for succulents or cacti. Decorative flowering species can be fertilized with appropriate means.

The main criterion that kalanchoe plant receiving sufficient care will be the appearance. The leaves should be slightly shiny, dense and uniform in color. Yellowed around the edges and having spots on the surface, you must immediately remove and revise the mode of irrigation and lighting.

Buds after flowering are immediately removed to give strength to others. Fast bud update also feature a plant that will allow you to enjoy the wonderful sight of a flowering Kalanchoe for longer.

How to propagate Kalanchoe

There are many methods for this process, it all depends on the type of plant. For this, seeds, shoots and even pieces of leaves of an adult plant can be used. More on this below.

Reproduction of Kalanchoe can be done in the following ways:

Young Kalanchoe does not need any special care. moderate watering and comfortable temperature, as well as the absence of direct sunlight and high humidity guarantees a positive result for your efforts.

Why Kalanchoe does not bloom

Most of the problems after buying a plant arise precisely with insufficient flowering or its abrupt cessation. There may be several reasons for this, mainly possible diseases or maintenance errors.

Watering the plant should be carried out only with water at room temperature, otherwise a sharp deterioration in the appearance of Kalanchoe and loss of peduncles is possible.

How to make Kalanchoe bloom in this case? It is enough to correct the provoking factors and provide him with the necessary care. After a short recovery period, Kalanchoe will thank you for your care with abundant flowering.

How to transplant Kalanchoe

It is best to use the transfer method and carefully transfer the plant from a smaller pot to a slightly larger one, with soil of the same composition. The container for the flower should be deep enough for a well-developed root system. At the same time, you cannot immediately plant Kalanchoe in big pot to prevent the spread of roots over the entire area to the detriment of the development of the trunk and leaves.

How to cut Kalanchoe

Most varieties of this unpretentious plant perfectly tolerate pruning and lend themselves well to the formation of a bush. Sharp enough scissors must be used to avoid unnecessary injury. The top, after pruning, lets out side shoots and the bush turns out to be more lush and beautiful.

Pruning Kalanchoe also provides for the timely removal of old leaves and inflorescences for attractive appearance plants.

Kalanchoe needs no special introduction. Due to its wide distribution, we all remember the home remedies from this amazing useful flower. At the same time, the majority not only knows what Kalanchoe looks like, but also remembers the characteristic bitterness inherent in its juice.

The modern round of popularity fell on its decorative varieties, which also have excellent medicinal properties. In addition, the benefits will be long flowering and ease of maintenance.