Kitten Ears

Kitten Ears should be kept relatively dry, as they are succulents. The best method is to water them completely only if the soil is completely dry. If the soil feels moist, then wait and try again in a few days. One way to know if the plant needs to be watered again is to place your finger an inch deep into the soil and check the moisture level. An important note is to be careful not to overwater the plant as that can cause root rot.

Kitten Ears prefer bright light and sun, but not too much direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause too intense of heat that will damage the leaves – especially during the hottest summer days. Instead, provide bright or filtered light or place them in a bright room chosen light to moderate indirect sunlight.

The optimal temperature range for Kitten Ears is between 60 to 70-degree Fahrenheit in the daytime. In the evening, the temperatures can drop to between 55-degree and 60-degree Fahrenheit. To maintain the health of the plant, Kitten Ears should never be exposed to temperatures below 40-degrees Fahrenheit (4.4 degrees Celsius).

Kitten Ears prefer average to slightly higher humidity levels. It is important to not keep the environment overly humid, as the plant will begin to rot. In rooms with very low humidity, the perfect solution would be to mist the plant, just make sure the leaves are dry before the night.

Kitten Ears prefer well-draining, gritty soil with a neutral pH. To ensure the best growth, use a soil specifically designed for succulents or add perlite or pumice to regular potting soil. To promote ideal drainage, add thick layers of gravel at the bottom of the pot.

Kitten Ears require fertilization every 6 weeks during the growing season. Use a specially formulated liquid fertilizer during the active season and cease fertilizer during the rest period. Always dilute the fertilizer to about a quarter strength and never apply fertilizer to dry soil. It is important to never overfertilize as Kitten Ears are sensitive to any excess fertilization and it will cause the plant to burn.

One of the biggest enemies of Kitten Ears are mealybugs and aphids. These two pests often carry disease and can harm or even kill the Kitten Ears plant. Generally, these pests are attracted to the fuzzy and woolly leaves of the Kitten Ears, so keeping the leaves clean can be effective in preventing them from entering the plant. To get rid of these pests, the most effective way is to clean the entire plant with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol. This will help to smother any pests that are currently on the plant. It is important as well to isolate any infected plants to avoid the spread of the disease.

The best time to repot Kitten Ears is in the spring. It's important to choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one and use a specially-made succulent substrate or regular potting soil with some added perlite or pumice or even sand. The potting mix should have good drainage so that the soil isn't waterlogged. When repotting, make sure to carefully remove the plant from its old pot and untangle any roots that are hopelessly matted. It is also important to water the soil once a week to ensure the plant has enough moisture to keep it healthy.

Pruning Kitten Ears plants helps to maintain their shape and size, promote healthy growth and keep the plant vigorous. Prune only when the plants are healthy and thriving and not in any way struggling. Handle the leaves gently to avoid breakage as they have a delicate structure. The best way to prune the plant is to use a pair of clean, sharp shears. Cut just above the leaf’s base, taking care not to damage the stem.

Mulching can help keep the surface of the soil moist and decrease water evaporation. A thin layer of mulch such as peat moss, bark, and/or pine needles can be used around the roots of the Kitten Ears.

To propagate Kitten Ears, start by taking a stem cutting with several leaves intact. For best results, take the cutting during the summer growing season. Dip the cutting in a rooting hormone and plant it in sandy, well-draining soil, leaving the two lower leaves attached to the stem. Make sure to keep a moist environment and in a few weeks then you should notice new growth. With proper care, the Kitten Ears cutting will take root and can then be transplanted out.

In order to keep the shape of the plant, Kitten Ears may not need support. Although, some larger plants can be grown with the help of a stake to keep the larger stems and leaves from drooping.

Kitten Ears needs a rest period, like any other succulent, and should be kept fairly dry during colder months or when the plant is dormant. While the rest period is necessary, it is important not to let the plant dry out completely. During the rest period the plant should receive partial sunlight or bright/filtered light and they should only be given water once the soil is completely dry.

Kitten Ears is safe for both pets and people.