The Calandiva, a hybrid of Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, is a popular flowering houseplant known for its vibrant and long-lasting blooms. These succulents are valued for their clusters of double flowers, which come in a wide array of colors. Its ease of care and consistent color over several weeks make it a popular choice.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Calandivas thrive with bright, indirect light. Placing them near an east or south-facing window is ideal, as direct, intense sunlight can scorch their leaves.
Watering a Calandiva correctly is essential for its health. As succulents, they are susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, every one to two weeks. When watering, ensure the plant is thoroughly hydrated, but avoid letting it sit in standing water.
A well-draining soil mix is important for Calandiva health. A succulent or cactus mix is recommended, or a blend of half succulent and cactus mix with half potting soil. Adding perlite or coarse sand enhances drainage, which helps prevent waterlogging. Selecting a pot with drainage holes is advised.
Calandivas prefer average room temperatures, between 60°F and 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Protect them from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and cold drafts. Moderate indoor humidity levels are suitable, as they do not require high humidity.
During their active growing and blooming seasons, spring and summer, Calandivas benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied monthly. Reduce or cease fertilization during the fall and winter months when the plant enters a dormant phase.
Encouraging Reblooming
Calandivas are short-day plants; their flowering is triggered by specific light and dark cycles. To encourage reblooming, the plant needs a period of extended darkness, mimicking shorter days. This involves providing 14 to 16 hours of uninterrupted darkness each day for six to eight weeks.
During this dark period, place the plant in a completely dark room or cover it with a box. During the remaining 8 to 10 hours, expose the plant to bright, indirect light. Consistency is important; even brief interruptions of light during the dark cycle can disrupt bud formation.
Maintaining a stable temperature between 60°F and 75°F during this period assists reblooming. Watering should be reduced during this rest period. Once flower buds begin to form, the plant can be returned to its usual bright, indirect light conditions.
Ongoing Maintenance
Deadheading, which involves removing spent blooms, encourages new blooms and maintains a tidy appearance. Snip off faded flowers close to the stem.
Light shaping or trimming can be done to manage leggy growth and promote a fuller, bushier plant. This redirects the plant’s energy towards new growth rather than elongated stems.
Repotting is needed when the Calandiva becomes root-bound, every one to two years. The best time to repot is during the growing season in spring or summer. Choose a new pot one size larger than the current one and ensure it has drainage holes. Use fresh, well-draining succulent or cactus soil mix.
Addressing Common Issues
Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering or a nutrient deficiency. If leaves are wilting or drooping, it might be a symptom of underwatering or root rot caused by excessive moisture.
Leggy growth, characterized by long, stretched stems with sparse leaves, results from insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight helps mitigate this. A lack of blooms points to an improper light/dark cycle.
Calandivas are resistant to pests, but they can be affected by common houseplant pests such as mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. Inspecting the plant regularly helps catch infestations early. Fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew or root rot, are linked to overwatering or overly humid conditions. Ensuring proper watering practices and good air circulation helps prevent these issues.