Why Is My Donkey Ear Plant Falling Over

Donkey Ear plants, also known as Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri or paddle plant, are succulent plants that are easy to care for and add a beautiful touch to any home or garden. However, one common problem that many plant owners face is their Donkey Ear plant falling over. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this issue and provide some solutions to keep your Donkey Ear plant healthy and upright.

Reasons Why Donkey Ear Plants Fall Over

1. Overwatering: Donkey Ear plants are succulents that store water in their leaves, making them drought-resistant. However, overwatering can cause the plant to rot and become weak, leading to it falling over. It is essential to ensure that the soil is well-drained, and the plant is not sitting in water.

2. Lack of sunlight: Donkey Ear plants require bright sunlight to thrive. If the plant is not receiving enough light, it may become weak and fall over.

3. Pests: Mealybugs and spider mites are common pests that can infest Donkey Ear plants. These pests can cause damage to the plant’s leaves, making them weak and prone to falling over.

4. Root-bound: If your Donkey Ear plant has been growing in the same pot for too long, its roots may become root-bound. This means that the roots have grown so much that there is no room for them to expand further, causing the plant to become weak and fall over.

5. Temperature: Donkey Ear plants prefer warm temperatures and do not tolerate extreme cold or heat well. If the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit or rises above 85 degrees Fahrenheit, the plant may become weak and fall over.

Solutions for a Falling Over Donkey Ear Plant

1. Adjust watering: To prevent overwatering, ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not sitting in water. Allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions, and only water when the top inch of soil is dry.

2. Increase sunlight: Donkey Ear plants require bright sunlight to thrive. Ensure that your plant is placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.

3. Pest control: If you notice that your Donkey Ear plant has been infested by pests, use an appropriate insecticide to control them. You can also wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove any pests manually.

4. Repotting: If your Donkey Ear plant has become root-bound, it is time to repot it. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one and ensure that the soil is well-drained.

5. Temperature control: Keep your Donkey Ear plant in an area with temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure that it is not exposed to extreme heat or cold.

FAQ

1. Can I save my falling over Donkey Ear plant?

Yes, you can save your falling over Donkey Ear plant by identifying the cause of the problem and taking appropriate action. Adjusting watering, increasing sunlight, pest control, repotting, and temperature control are some solutions that can help save your plant.

1. How often should I water my Donkey Ear plant?

Water your Donkey Ear plant once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the plant is not sitting in water.

1. Can I propagate my Donkey Ear plant?

Yes, you can propagate your Donkey Ear plant by taking stem cuttings or leaf cuttings and planting them in well-drained soil. Ensure that the cuttings have calloused before planting them.

1. How do I know if my Donkey Ear plant is receiving enough sunlight?

If your Donkey Ear plant is receiving enough sunlight, its leaves should turn a bright shade of red or pink. If the leaves are green, it may be an indication that the plant is not receiving enough sunlight.

1. Can I fertilize my Donkey Ear plant?

Yes, you can fertilize your Donkey Ear plant once a month during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer and follow the instructions on the label. Overfertilizing can cause the plant to become weak and fall over.

In conclusion, Donkey Ear plants are beautiful succulents that require proper care to thrive. Ensure that you identify the cause of your falling over Donkey Ear plant and take appropriate action to save it. With proper care, your Donkey Ear plant will grow healthy and upright, adding a beautiful touch to your home or garden.