Warty Cabbage

Kalanchoe tomentosa requires very little water. During spring-summer, it should be watered every two to three weeks; in winter, reduce the waterings to every month or month and a half, depending on the temperature. The soil should be allowed to dry completely between waterings, as the plant’s roots are prone to rotting. It is very important to avoid overwatering in order to keep the plant healthy.

Warty Cabbage plants tolerate a wide range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade. They grow best in bright but indirect light. They can be kept in direct sun, but for periods of no longer than a few hours a day in order to avoid sun damage. In the summer, it’s essential to protect the plant from the hottest hours of sunlight to avoid sunburns on the leaves. In the winter, the plant has less need for sunlight, so it can be kept in a cooler area that receives lower light.

Warty Cabbage plants prefer a warm temperature range between 65°F (18°C) and 75°F (24°C). Reduce the temperature in the winter months to between 50-55°F (10-13°C). When the temperature is higher, it is important to increase the amount of air circulation around the plant and provide it with some shade from direct sunlight.

This plant does not require high humidity to thrive. Regular household humidity is adequate. During the summer months, you can mist the leaves to provide additional humidity. Avoid misting during winter months because the humidity can cause root rot.

Warty Cabbage plants prefer a fast-draining soil mix. Use a commercial succulent mix and if necessary, mix in some extra sand or perlite for extra drainage. The pH should be slightly acidic (6.0-7.0).

Warty Cabbage plants do not require regular fertilization. However, they can benefit from a light application of a balanced or cacti/succulent fertilizer once every month during the growing season. Always read and follow the instructions on the packaging.

Warty Cabbage plants are susceptible to pests including scale, mealybugs, and aphids. Early detection is key to treat and prevent pests from spreading. To remove scale, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to scrape off any visible pests. To get rid of mealybugs, spray the plant leaves with isopropyl alcohol. As a preventative measure, consider spraying the plants with neem oil. Finally, to get rid of aphids, use insecticidal soap and neem oil for severe cases.

Repotting is recommended every two to three years to provide the plant with new soil and a larger pot. The best time to repot Kalanchoe tomentosa is in early spring before new growth begins. Before repotting, make sure the soil is dry and then remove the plant from the current pot carefully. Choose a slightly larger pot. Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot. Place a layer of small stones or gravel at the bottom of the pot for extra drainage. Finally, water the soil before placing the plant in the pot.

Pruning is only necessary to remove damaged leaves or remove old blooms. Be sure to sterilize the pruner blades with rubbing alcohol before pruning to prevent diseases. Make sure not to prune too aggressively as this plant grows slowly.

Mulching is not necessary. Just make sure to choose a pot with adequate drainage holes.

Propagation of Warty Cabbage plants is easy. They can be propagated from seeds or leaf and stem cuttings. To propagate from cuttings, use sharp pruning shears to cut a leaf or stem and allow it to sit on the counter for a few days until a callous forms over the cut end. Then, dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant the cutting in well-draining potting mix. Keep the cutting in a warm, humid area until the roots start to form. Transplant into a permanent pot after the roots have established.

Not necessary. The leaves of this plant are thick and sturdy and provide enough support. The stems are too weak to rely on them for support.

Warty Cabbage plants do not require a rest period and can be grown year-round. When grown in the summer, the plant may require more water, but during the winter, the water should be reduced and the plant should be kept in cooler temperatures.

Yes, Warty Cabbage plants are toxic to pets when ingested. The succulent leaves contain raphidophylline which can be toxic if ingested. If ingested, seek immediate veterinary help.