The Kalanchoes are one of a very species-rich genus of diverse succulents that were brought to Europe from Madagascar a good 90 years ago. That's why many refer to the pretty plants as Kalanchoe Madagascar. However, this is not a plant name for one of the pretty Kalanchoe species, but rather a common collective term for these thick-leaved plants. If you take into account the special requirements of the easy-care plants, they prove to be extremely unproblematic decorations for rooms and balconies.
How do you properly care for a Kalanchoe Madagascar?
Kalanchoe Madagascar care includes sparing watering, occasional fertilizing from April to October, repotting if necessary, minimal pruning, overwintering at room temperature and pest control. Make sure the soil is poor in nutrients and in a bright location to ensure optimal growth.
How to water?
The water requirement of succulents is very low. Keep the soil evenly moist throughout the growing season. Watering is always carried out when the top ten centimeters of the substrate feel evenly moist when tested with a thumb.
How to fertilize?
You do not need to fertilize the Kalanchoe Madagascar at all during the winter months. From April to October, the plant is supplied monthly with a commercially available liquid fertilizer (€5.00 on Amazon).
When does it need to be repotted?
Older plants are repotted when the planter has obviously become too small. The ideal time for this care measure is spring. Always plant the Kalanchoe in a nutrient-poor substrate; special succulent or cactus soil is ideal.
How to cut?
Almost all Kalachoe species only need to be cut if they are growing poorly. You can then cut the stems back to just above the ground, the plant will readily sprout again.
How do you overwinter?
The Kalanchoe Madagascar can be overwintered at normal room temperature. It likes to be a little cooler when it is resting, but the temperature in its winter quarters should not fall below 15 degrees.
What pests and diseases are threatening?
- If you are too careful with watering, there is a risk of root rot. The fine roots die and the succulent dries up, even though you water regularly. In this case, repot the Kalanchoe Madagascar quickly and remove all damaged root parts. The plant usually recovers quickly.
- Mildew can also affect houseplants and appears as an unsightly, mealy coating on the leaves. The only thing that helps here is to cut off the affected leaves. If the infestation is severe, you can treat the Kalanchoe Madagascar with a suitable fungicide.
- Mealybugs and aphids rarely attack the Kalanchoe. The pests usually migrate to the Kalanchoe from other plants. The trade has highly effective sprays with which you can easily get rid of the pests.
Tip
With varieties like the Busy Lieschen, you can delay the flowering period by only pinching out the parts of the umbel that have bloomed. This means that the Kalanchoe keeps putting on new buds.
