Let There be Light:
How Much Light Does Calandiva Plant Need to Thrive

Calandiva is a beautiful flowering plant that has become popular among gardeners and houseplant enthusiasts. It belongs to the Crassulaceae family and is native to Madagascar. Calandiva is a hybrid plant that was developed by a Dutch company in 2009. It has large, double flowers that bloom in a wide range of colors, including pink, red, orange, yellow, and white. If you’re planning to grow Calandiva, you should know how much light it needs to thrive. In this article, we’ll discuss the ideal light conditions for Calandiva.

How Much Light Does Calandiva Need?

Calandiva is a succulent plant that requires bright but indirect light to grow well. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight for short periods, but prolonged exposure to intense light can damage its leaves and flowers. Therefore, it’s best to place Calandiva in a spot where it can receive bright, filtered light throughout the day.

If you’re growing Calandiva indoors, you should place it near a window that faces east or west. These windows receive bright but indirect light for most of the day, which is ideal for Calandiva. If your windows face north or south, you may need to supplement the plant’s light with artificial grow lights.

Outdoor Calandiva plants should be placed in a spot where they can receive indirect sunlight for most of the day. A shaded patio or under a tree canopy is an excellent location for Calandiva. If you live in an area with hot summers, you may need to move the plant indoors during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf burn.

What Happens if Calandiva Doesn’t Get Enough Light?

If Calandiva doesn’t receive enough light, it may not flower as well as it should. The plant may also become leggy and weak as it stretches towards the light source. The leaves may turn yellow and drop off if the plant is kept in low light conditions for an extended period.

What Happens if Calandiva Gets Too Much Light?

If Calandiva receives too much direct sunlight, its leaves may become scorched and damaged. The flowers may also wilt and fall off prematurely. If you notice leaf burn on your Calandiva plant, move it to a shadier spot immediately.

Tips for Growing Calandiva Indoors

Growing Calandiva indoors can be a rewarding experience if you provide the right conditions for the plant. Here are some tips to help you grow healthy and vibrant Calandiva plants indoors:

• Choose a pot with good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
• Use well-draining soil with added perlite or sand to improve drainage.
• Water Calandiva when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
• Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
• Keep indoor temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C).
• Provide bright but indirect light near an east or west-facing window.

Tips for Growing Calandiva Outdoors

Growing Calandiva outdoors requires some careful planning and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you grow healthy and vibrant Calandiva plants outdoors:

• Choose a spot that receives bright but indirect sunlight for most of the day.
• Plant in well-draining soil with added organic matter.
• Water regularly but avoid overwatering.
• Fertilize every four weeks during the growing season.
• Protect from frost during the winter months.
• Prune regularly to promote bushy growth and more flowers.

Conclusion

Calandiva is a beautiful flowering plant that requires bright but indirect light to thrive. Whether you’re growing it indoors or outdoors, providing the right amount of light is crucial for its health and vitality. By following our tips and guidelines, you can enjoy lush and vibrant Calandiva plants all year round.

FAQ Section

Can I grow Calandiva in low light conditions?

No, Calandiva requires bright but indirect light to grow well. Low light conditions can cause leggy growth, yellow leaves, and poor flowering.

How often should I water my Calandiva plant?

Water your Calandiva when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.

Should I fertilize my Calandiva plant?

Yes, fertilize your Calandiva every four weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.

How do I get my Calandiva plant to flower?

Calandiva will naturally produce flowers during its blooming season. Ensure that your plant is getting enough bright but indirect light and fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer.

Can I grow Calandiva outside all year round?

Calandiva is sensitive to cold temperatures and frost. It’s best to bring them inside during winter months or protect them from frost with blankets or other coverings.