Flaming Katy

Flaming Katy is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. Water thoroughly when the top of the soil has dried out, as it loves the moisture and will benefit from a good soak in between watering. However, like for many succulents, be careful not to overwater since it may cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry up over watering before watering again.

Flaming Katy thrives in bright light conditions but will tolerate shadier spots as long as it gets sufficient hours of indirect sunlight. It is best to place Flaming Katy in a spot with good indirect light during the morning and shadier during the afternoon. Make sure not to keep the plant in a dark corner as it may cause legging of the stem and stop blooming. Keep away from direct, strong light, as it may burn the leaves.

Flaming Katy is not a fan of extreme temperatures, and will prefer temperatures ranging from 60°F - 75°F (15°C - 24°C). Avoid extremes in temperature, as it may result in stunted or foliage burning. It will tolerate light frosts, but not hard freezes.

Flaming Katy prefers low humidity, therefore proper ventilation is key in order to prevent pests or fungus as well as promote a healthy humidity level. It is best to keep the humidity on the lower level, as an airy habitat with clear and frequent air circulation will help the plant to thrive.

As a semi-succulent, Flaming Katy prefers a soil that is aerated and provides efficient drainage. The soil should be well-drained, loose, light-weight, and acidic to neutral pH, in order to facilitate high oxygen levels and enable nutritious absorption. It is best to choose a soil for succulent-cacti or sand-based potting soil. Moreover, poor soils can be amended with sand, perlite, and peat moss.

Fertilize your Flaming Katy once or twice a year in spring and summer, with a slow-release, high-potassium fertilizer or a flowering plant fertilizer. Always read the labels as it may provide valuable information about the fertilizer. Avoid using strong chemical fertilizers as they may damage the leaves and cause salt build up.

Common pests which may appear when cultivating Kalanchoe blossfeldiana are aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, scales, thrips, and whitefly. Generally, the plant is resistant to common pests, however, if any of them do appear there are certain steps that can be taken to eradicate them. Insecticidal soap, neem oil, rubbing alcohol, or any insecticide specifically used for parasitic and sucking insects of succulents can be used in accredited dosages and frequency when appropriate. Always read the labels of the solution before proceeding. Once the pest has been dealt with proper hygiene and care are fundamental to avoid imminent reappearance of the pest.

Repotting is necessary every 2-3 years, or when the plant has outgrown its pot. It is recommended to use a succulent-specific potting soil, which is fast-draining, and each time choose a pot that is 1-2 inches bigger than the previous one. Place it in a sunny spot and water moderately and deeply.

Although not necessary in order for the plant to flourish, pruning Flaming Katy can be beneficial and may increase long-term growth. Cut back any wilted or dead leaves with a sharp, sterilized knife or pruner in order to encourage better circulation in the plant. Also, this will prevent the pest infestation.

A layer of mulch may reduce the amount of water that is lost from transpiration. Other benefits may include protection from extreme temperatures or the ensurance of proper soil moisture levels. Mulching materials can range from organics like wood chips, straw, crushed leaves, or bark to inorganics like crushed stone, gravel, lava rock, etc.

The easiest method for propagating Flaming Kaly is by stem cuttings. Make sure to take a sharp, sterilized knife and take 4-5 inch cuttings and place them into moist sandy soil. Water thoroughly and place them in indirect, shadier spots. The cutting will need time to root and form a bushy, mature plant.

Flaming Katy does not require special structural support, but during propagation season, a few stakes can be inserted into the potting mix in order to provide vertical support to the plant.

Flaming Katy does not require a dormancy/rest period in order to thrive and flower. However, when the blooms are gone there is a chance that the plant will enter a period of dormancy.

Flaming Katy is not toxic to pets, however, the sap of the plant may cause irritation you can try to keep it away from your pets.