What To Do With Haworthia Flower Stalks – A Guide to Caring for and Using the Blooms

One of the joys of growing succulents like Haworthia is seeing them send up flowering stalks But once those delicate Haworthia blooms fade, what should you do with the remaining flower stalk? With a little creativity, there are lots of ways to make use of Haworthia flower stalks

In this article, we’ll explore when and why Haworthia bloom, how to cut the stalks, ideas for using the stalks, care after cutting, and how to encourage more flowering. Read on for a complete guide to getting the most from your Haworthia’s beautiful flower stems.

Understanding Haworthia Flowering

Haworthia are unique succulents native to South Africa. Most species produce dainty white star-shaped flowers on long, thin stalks. There are a few things to know about their flowering habits

• Most varieties bloom in late winter or spring when sunlight hours increase. Some may flower at other times as well.

• Mature, healthy plants between 3-5 years old are most likely to flower. Younger or stressed Haworthia generally won’t bloom.

• Lots of sunlight and proper fall/winter care triggers flower stalk production. Cooler temps also encourage blooming.

• Each stalk bears many tiny flowers that last only a day or two before fading. But new blooms constantly replace them for weeks.

• Once flowering finishes, the stalk eventually dries out and can be removed. The plant then focuses energy on foliage growth.

Cutting Haworthia Flower Stalks

Once flowers fade, the stalks can be cut back. Here are some tips:

• Use clean, sharp scissors or garden shears to avoid crushing the stem.

• Cut the stalk near its base to remove the entire length. Leave about 1⁄2 inch attached.

• Sterilize tools with rubbing alcohol to avoid transferring diseases between plants.

• Check for any offsets or baby Haworthia near the base and avoid damaging them.

• Remove dried flowers and leaves from cut stalks if you plan to use them.

Ideas for Using Haworthia Flower Stalks

The woody flower stems have many uses beyond the garden. Consider saving them for:

• Floral arrangements – The curving stalks make perfect fillers mixed with other dried flowers or greens.

• Crafting – Paint and decoupage stalks to make plant-themed magnets, jewelry, wreaths, and more.

• Rooting – Lay stalks in dry soil and they may sprout baby Haworthia along their length.

• Propagating – Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it to produce a new Haworthia clone.

• Composting – Add stalks to compost bins or gardens for a nutrient boost.

• Kindling – Dry stalks work similarly to twigs to help start fires in fireplaces or outdoor pits.

Caring for the Plant After Cutting

Snipping off flower stalks takes energy from the plant. To help it recover:

• Keep it in bright indirect light and avoid direct sun right after cutting.

• Water a little more frequently for 2-3 weeks while new foliage grows. Then resume normal watering.

• Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer at half strength 2-4 weeks after cutting.

• Monitor for signs of stress like Droopy leaves and adjust care as needed.

• Allow the plant several months of rest before repotting, propagating, or moving it.

Encouraging More Flowering

To maximize Haworthia blooms:

• Provide bright light through fall and early winter to initiate flower stalks.

• Keep plants a little drier in fall before the flowering period.

• Move pots outside when temps drop in fall if possible. Chilly nights promote flowering.

• Apply fertilizer in spring and summer to ensure plants are vigorous enough to bloom.

• Avoid disturbing or dividing Haworthia in the fall to allow flower stalks to form.

• Propagate mature, flowering Haworthia to produce new plants likely to bloom each year.

The Joy and Uses of Haworthia Blooms

Haworthia flower stalks bring beauty to these succulents before fading away. But even after blooms finish, the woody stems have many creative uses, from decoration to propagation. Follow proper cutting and care techniques to keep Haworthia healthy while taking advantage of the flowering stalks. With the right conditions, your faithful Haworthia will keep producing lovely blooms year after year for you to enjoy or use.