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How Quickly Does Chandelier Plant Grow?

Updated: March 24, 2023

Chandelier plant (Kalanchoe delagoensis), also known as mother of thousands, is a popular succulent plant that is native to Madagascar. As the name suggests, this plant produces a large number of baby plants or “pups” along the edges of its leaves, which can grow into new plants if they fall onto soil.

If you’re interested in growing chandelier plant, one of the first questions you might have is how quickly does it grow? In this article, we’ll explore the growth rate of chandelier plant and what factors can affect its speed of growth.

Growth Rate of Chandelier Plant

Chandelier plant is known for its relatively fast growth rate compared to other succulent plants. Under optimal conditions, a mature chandelier plant can produce dozens of new pups each year. These pups can grow to full size within a few months and start producing their own pups.

In general, chandelier plant grows faster during the summer months when temperatures are warm and there’s plenty of sunlight. During the winter, growth may slow down as the plant enters a period of dormancy. However, with proper care, chandelier plant can continue to grow throughout the year.

Factors That Affect Growth Rate

While chandelier plant has a fast growth rate under ideal conditions, there are several factors that can affect how quickly it grows:

Light

Chandelier plant requires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. If it doesn’t receive enough light, it may grow more slowly or even become leggy and stretched out. On the other hand, if it receives too much direct sunlight, its leaves may burn and turn brown.

Water

Like all succulent plants, chandelier plant is adapted to dry conditions and doesn’t require frequent watering. Overwatering can cause root rot and slow down growth, while underwatering can lead to shriveled leaves and stunted growth.

Soil

Chandelier plant prefers well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. If the soil is too compacted or retains too much moisture, it can inhibit growth and lead to root rot. Using a mix of sand, perlite, and potting soil can help improve soil drainage.

Temperature

Chandelier plant is adapted to warm temperatures and can’t tolerate frost or extreme heat. If temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), growth may slow down or stop altogether. Similarly, if temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C), the plant may become stressed and start to wilt.

How to Promote Faster Growth

If you want your chandelier plant to grow faster, there are several things you can do:

  • Provide plenty of bright, indirect sunlight
  • Water sparingly but deeply when the soil is dry
  • Use a well-draining soil mix
  • Maintain temperatures between 60°F (15°C) and 80°F (27°C)
  • Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season

By optimizing these conditions, you can encourage your chandelier plant to grow more quickly and produce more pups.

FAQ

How often should I water my chandelier plant?

Chandelier plant doesn’t require frequent watering and prefers to dry out between waterings. In general, it’s best to water deeply once every 1-2 weeks during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter.

Can chandelier plant be grown outdoors?

Chandelier plant is sensitive to frost and extreme heat, so it’s best grown as a container plant indoors or in a protected outdoor area.

How do I propagate chandelier plant?

Chandelier plant propagates easily from its “pups.” Simply remove the baby plants from the parent plant and plant them in well-draining soil. They should take root and start growing within a few weeks.

What pests and diseases should I watch out for with chandelier plant?

Chandelier plant is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. It may also develop root rot if overwatered or grown in soil that’s too wet. Regularly inspect your plant for signs of pests or disease and treat as needed.