lavender scallops / kalanchoe fedtschenkoi - starter plant cuttings

Plant Description:
Lavender Scallops, scientifically known as Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi, is a striking and hardy succulent renowned for its scalloped, fleshy leaves in shades of lavender-gray to blue-green. When exposed to bright light, the edges of the leaves develop a beautiful reddish-purple hue, creating a stunning contrast. This low-growing, spreading plant is perfect for indoor containers, hanging baskets, or rock gardens. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to add unique texture and a pop of color to their indoor or outdoor plant collection. Lavender Scallops also occasionally produce small, bell-shaped flowers on tall stalks, adding to its ornamental appeal.

Care Instructions:
1. Light:
Lavender Scallops thrives in bright, indirect light and can tolerate some direct sunlight. Adequate light brings out the plant’s vibrant purple edges. If kept in low light, the plant may lose its color intensity and grow leggy.

2. Watering:
As a drought-tolerant succulent, this plant prefers the "soak and dry" method—water thoroughly and allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to ensure proper drainage.

3. Humidity:
Lavender Scallops does well in normal household humidity and doesn’t require additional misting. It prefers dry environments, making it ideal for homes with low humidity.

4. Temperature:
Keep the plant in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (16°C to 29°C). It doesn’t tolerate frost, so if grown outdoors, bring it inside before the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C).

5. Soil:
Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. You can improve drainage by adding perlite or coarse sand to regular potting soil.

6. Fertilizer:
Feed with a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer). Feeding is not necessary in fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.

7. Pruning:
Prune to remove any leggy or damaged stems and encourage fuller, more compact growth. Pinch off offsets to control spreading and propagate new plants.

8. Propagation:
Lavender Scallops is easy to propagate from stem or leaf cuttings. Simply allow cuttings to dry for a day or two before placing them in well-draining soil.

Key Benefits:
Low-maintenance: Ideal for beginners or anyone seeking an easy-care succulent.
Attractive foliage: Its scalloped leaves and purple edges add a unique, colorful touch to any space.
Air-purifying: Like many succulents, it helps improve indoor air quality.
Versatile: Works well in various settings—indoors as a potted plant or outdoors in warm climates.
With its eye-catching scalloped leaves and minimal care requirements, Lavender Scallops is a wonderful plant for adding charm, texture, and a splash of color to your home or garden.




Instructions for Repotting Starter Plugs of Plants:

Materials Needed:

Starter plugs or seedlings
New pots with drainage holes
High-quality potting mix
Watering can or spray bottle
Small trowel or spoon
Optional: gloves, plant labels, and marker
Steps:

1. Prepare the New Pots: Choose pots that are slightly larger than the starter plugs. Ensure they have drainage holes at the bottom to prevent waterlogging. Clean the pots thoroughly, especially if they have been used before, to remove any pathogens.

2. Prepare the Potting Mix: Use a well-draining potting mix appropriate for the type of plants you are repotting. Moisten the mix slightly to make it easier to work with but avoid it being overly wet.

3. Remove Plants from Starter Plugs: Carefully remove the plants from the starter plugs. Gently squeeze the bottom of the plug or use a pencil to push the plant out if it’s stuck. Be gentle to avoid damaging the roots.

4. Add Potting Mix to New Pots: Fill the new pots one-third to one-half full with the prepared potting mix. Adjust the level based on the size of the starter plug and the plant's root system.

5. Place Plants in New Pots: Create a small hole in the center of the potting mix in the new pot. Place the plant’s roots into the hole, ensuring the top of the starter plug is level with the pot's rim.

6. Fill the Pots with Potting Mix: Gently fill the space around the roots with potting mix, pressing it down lightly to remove air pockets. Leave about an inch of space between the top of the potting mix and the rim of the pot.

7. Water the Plants: After repotting, water the plants thoroughly. Allow excess water to drain out from the bottom of the pot. This helps settle the soil and ensures the roots are in good contact with the new potting mix.

8. Provide Proper Care: Place the newly repotted plants in an appropriate environment. This includes providing the right amount of light, water, and humidity according to the specific plant's needs.

9. Label the Plants (Optional): If you're repotting different types of plants, consider labeling them with plant tags and a marker. This helps you keep track of the plants' names and care requirements. See example for this plant in images. This is available as a digital file for purchase under my shop's listings.

10. Monitor and Adjust: Keep a close eye on the repotted plants over the next few weeks. Watch for signs of stress or inadequate moisture. Adjust your care routine as needed to help the plants acclimate to their new pots and continue to thrive.