Before a Guzmania withers and dries up, it generously gives us a few more gifts: it forms Kindel. Saying goodbye to the mother plant is no longer difficult because the space that has become free is well occupied. This is how you deal with a child.
How do I separate and plant a Guzmania Kindel?
To separate a Guzmania Kindel from the mother plant and plant it, follow the following steps: When the Kindel reaches about half the height of the mother plant, carefully separate it with a sharp knife. Plant the child in a small pot with potting soil, sand and orchid soil, protect it with a cover and provide it with regular ventilation, watering and fertilizing.
What is a Kindel?
A Kindel is a small plant. It forms on an existing, mature plant. In due course it will be separated from its mother and from then on it will be allowed to lead an independent life. This type of bromeliad usually sprouts several children. They grow side by side with her, which is why things can get tight in the pot.
Time to break up
A Guzmania Kindel is mature enough for its own pot when it has reached about half the height of its mother plant. Ideally, propagation is carried out on a spring day.
Separate children
- Prepare a small, sharp and thoroughly disinfected knife.
- Grip the childel in your hand and gently press the entire plant to the side or downwards. This makes the connection point with the mother more accessible.
- Now cut off the child directly on the trunk of the mother plant.
Planting Kindel
Although Guzmania is usually not repotted due to its short life expectancy, you should still not choose a pot that is too large for the child. Even as a fully grown plant, it will not need a large home for its roots.
Use regular potting soil mixed with sand in a 2:1 ratio. It's even better if you add some orchid soil to the potting soil. Cover the plant with glass or foil and keep it warm. 25 °C without direct sun is ideal.
Tip
Instead of using a cover to increase humidity, you can also mist the small plant with water daily.
Care of the young plant
Vent the cover regularly. Water carefully, as the soil must not become too wet. A small amount of fertilizer can also be added with the irrigation water. After about four months, the cover can be completely removed. The plant is now treated like an adult in terms of care. But it will take about another two years for it to bloom.
