The kalanchoe at home is growing so lush! Looking at the layers of green leaves and vibrant flowers, can't you help but want to give it a beautiful trim? Don't worry, let me tell you in detail how to prune your kalanchoe to give it a new lease on life!
I. Understand the Growth Habits of Kalanchoe
Before starting to prune, let's first understand the growth habits of kalanchoe. Kalanchoe, scientifically known as Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, is a succulent plant native to southern Africa. It prefers warm, dry environments, is drought-tolerant and shade-tolerant, and grows relatively fast. Understanding this helps us to prune better.
II. Preparations Before Pruning
1. Tool preparation: A pair of sharp small scissors or pruning shears, and some alcohol cotton balls for disinfection.
2. Environmental preparation: Choose a well-ventilated, well-lit place for pruning, and avoid operating in a dark and humid environment.
3. Time selection: It is best to prune during the growing seasons of kalanchoe, such as spring and autumn.
III. Detailed Pruning Steps
1. Prune branches: First, cut off withered, diseased, weak, and cross-growing branches. These branches not only affect the aesthetics but may also consume the plant's nutrients and affect its growth.
2. Adjust the plant shape: Observe the overall shape of the kalanchoe and prune overly dense or slanted branches to keep it symmetrical and beautiful.
3. Promote branching: For overly vigorous branches, you can cut them back appropriately to encourage the plant to produce more new branches and increase its ornamental value.
4. Prune flower buds: After the flowers have withered, promptly remove the dead flowers to avoid consuming the plant's nutrients.
5. Prune leaves: For overly dense or large leaves, you can prune them appropriately to maintain ventilation and light for the leaves.
IV. Precautions After Pruning1. Disinfection: During the pruning process, scissors or pruning shears should be regularly disinfected with alcohol cotton balls to prevent the spread of germs.
2. Watering: After pruning, appropriately reduce the frequency of watering to avoid rotting caused by excessive moisture.
3. Fertilizing: After pruning, you can apply some compound fertilizer appropriately to supplement the plant's nutrients.
4. Light: Maintain sufficient light, which is beneficial for the plant's growth and flowering.
V. Frequently Asked Questions1. Why doesn't my kalanchoe flower after pruning?- It might be because the pruning was too severe, causing the plant to grow slowly. It is recommended to prune moderately to maintain the overall aesthetics of the plant.
2. How does kalanchoe recover after pruning?- After pruning, appropriately reduce the frequency of watering, maintain ventilation and light, and apply some compound fertilizer to help the plant recover and grow.
3. How to prevent pests and diseases after pruning kalanchoe?- During the pruning process, pay attention to disinfecting the scissors to avoid the spread of germs. At the same time, maintain ventilation and light, and check the plant regularly to detect and handle pests and diseases in a timely manner.
Pruning kalanchoe is a science that requires us to learn and practice with care. As long as you master the correct pruning methods, your kalanchoe will surely grow more beautiful and healthy! Come and give it a try, let your kalanchoe be reborn!