BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine

How should I look after this plant we were given?

-

Philippe, by email

AJAMES SAYS This houseplant is a kalanchoe or flaming Katy. It is easy to grow, as it likes the same living conditions we do, in terms of temperatur­e, light and humidity. If you can sit in a spot indoors and comfortabl­y read in daylight, it will be happy there. As it’s a succulent from an arid climate, let it dry out a little between waterings.

After flowering, trim off the old blooms and apply a liquid fertiliser. It may well flower again. You can continue to feed it every two weeks throughout the growing season.

Kalanchoe are easy to propagate from leaf cuttings, so why not try growing more for free? You could even give one to the kind soul who gave it to you in the first place.

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom