Kalanchoe is a perennial, round-shaped plant that grows up to 30 cm in height and diameter. There are more than 100 species of this plant, although only a few are commonly cultivated.
Like many houseplants, Kalanchoe can be affected by a variety of diseases and pests.
Common Kalanchoe Diseases
- Aphid infestation
- Parlatoria scale insects
- Root rot
- Soft stem rot
- Powdery mildew
Aphid Infestation
Cause and Symptoms
Aphids are one of the most common pests that attack Kalanchoe. They usually appear during spring and spread quickly across nearby plants.
They come in black or green and cluster around flowers and stems.
Aphids suck plant sap and inject toxins in its place, causing sticky secretions that block the plant’s ability to breathe.
Treatment
Aphid control involves:
- Cutting off infected parts and burning them
- Treating remaining infected areas with insecticides
- Repeating treatment once a week for a full month
- Using potassium soap by diluting 20 g per liter of water and washing the plant (while covering the soil with polyethylene)
- If potassium soap isn’t available, regular laundry soap can be used but is less effective
Parlatoria Scale Insects
Cause and Symptoms
These insects measure about 2 mm in length and have wax-covered bodies.
Females are notably larger than males.
Symptoms include yellowing leaves, leaf drop, and slowed growth.
In severe cases, black mold begins to grow on the plant’s sticky secretions.
Treatment
Control methods include:
- Collecting and removing the insects manually
- Washing the plant with soapy water
- Using insecticides or herbal solutions
- Wiping the plant 3–4 times weekly with an old toothbrush or garlic extract
- To prepare garlic extract: crush 5–6 cloves, mix with one cup of water, leave in a dark place for several hours, then strain and spray
Root Rot
Cause and Symptoms
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots, preventing plant growth.
It usually appears under cold temperatures and in moist, waterlogged conditions.
Treatment
- Apply fungicides for mild to moderate infections
- Remove all rotten roots in severe cases
Powdery Mildew
Cause and Symptoms
This fungal disease appears as a white or gray powder on plant surfaces.
Treatment
- Keep the plant’s foliage dry
- Avoid placing the plant in cold, damp, or windy areas
- Position the plant where it receives adequate sunlight
Soft Stem Rot
Cause and Symptoms
Soft stem rot causes the plant to wilt and turn yellow.
It is mainly caused by overwatering and excessive fertilization.
Treatment
The best solution is to discard the infected Kalanchoe and replace it with a healthy plant, avoiding overwatering or overfeeding the new one.
