Calandiva White is a cultivar of Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, a popular flowering succulent. This variety is known for its vibrant, long-lasting blooms and dense clusters of double white flowers, often resembling miniature roses. Chosen for its elegant appearance and low-maintenance nature, Calandiva White is a favorite for all plant enthusiasts, bringing enduring beauty to indoor spaces, especially during cooler months.
Essential Care for Calandiva White
Light Requirements
Calandiva White thrives in conditions that provide ample bright, indirect light throughout the day. Placing the plant near a north or east-facing window is ideal, offering sufficient illumination without intense direct sun. Direct sunlight, especially from south or west-facing windows, can scorch leaves and stress the plant. If direct sun is unavoidable, filtering the light with a sheer curtain helps protect the foliage.
Watering Practices
Proper watering is important for Calandiva White; overwatering is a common issue for succulents. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger or chopstick into the top inch or two to determine when watering is needed. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot bottom, then promptly empty excess water from the saucer. During winter months, when the plant’s growth slows, reduce watering frequency further.
Soil and Potting
Calandiva White requires a well-draining potting mix, similar to what is used for cacti or other succulents. A quick-draining mixture prevents water from sitting around the roots, which can lead to rot. Pots must have drainage holes to facilitate this. Repotting is needed only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its current container, typically every two to three years. When repotting, select a container that is only slightly larger than the previous one.
Temperature and Humidity
Calandiva White prefers average room temperatures, ideally ranging between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Protecting the plant from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) is important, as cold can damage foliage. This plant adapts well to typical indoor humidity levels and does not require additional humidity. Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations to maintain a stable environment.
Fertilization
Calandiva White is not a heavy feeder, tolerating nutrient-poor conditions. If desired, a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer can be applied at half strength during the active growing season, which spans spring and summer. Fertilize approximately once every four to six weeks during this period. Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter when the plant enters dormancy. Over-fertilizing can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil, potentially harming the roots.
Encouraging Blooms and Reblooming
Calandiva White is prized for abundant blooms, lasting several weeks. To encourage continuous flowering and reblooming, specific care practices are beneficial. After flowers fade, gently remove spent blooms by pinching or snipping them close to the stem. Deadheading redirects the plant’s energy from seed production toward new growth and future blooms.
Reblooming requires simulated short days and long nights to mimic its natural cycle. Beginning in fall, provide 12 to 14 hours of uninterrupted darkness daily for approximately six weeks. Achieve this by placing the plant in a dark closet or covering it with a box. During remaining hours, ensure bright, indirect light. Once new flower buds begin to form after this six-week period, the plant can be returned to its regular bright, indirect light conditions.
Troubleshooting Common Calandiva White Issues
Common issues with Calandiva White often indicate environmental stress or improper care. Yellowing, soft leaves point to overwatering, while crispy brown tips or wilting suggest underwatering. Adjusting the watering schedule to allow soil to fully dry between waterings resolves these problems.
Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems and sparse foliage, indicates insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter, indirect light location promotes compact growth. A lack of blooms after initial flowering is due to an incorrect light cycle; re-establishing short-day, long-night conditions encourages new flowering.
Calandiva can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like mealybugs or aphids, identified by sticky residue or visible insects. Addressing infestations involves cleaning leaves and, if necessary, applying horticultural treatments.