The Kalanchoe plant, especially the popular Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, thrives successfully as a houseplant. This flowering succulent is favored for its vibrant, long-lasting blooms and natural drought tolerance, making it a relatively low-maintenance option for indoor gardeners. Originating in Madagascar, Kalanchoe is well-adapted to indoor environments, provided its specific needs for light, temperature, and water are met. Replicating the conditions of its native habitat is the foundation for keeping this plant healthy and encouraging its flowering cycles.
Meeting Essential Light and Temperature Needs
Kalanchoe requires abundant light to maintain its compact form and produce flower buds consistently. The ideal placement is a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight throughout the day. A south-facing window filtered by a sheer curtain, or an unobstructed east- or west-facing window, often provides the perfect intensity.
While the plant loves bright conditions, intense, direct afternoon sun through glass can lead to leaf scorching and reddish discoloration. Gentle morning sun, such as from an east-facing exposure, is beneficial for growth. Insufficient light results in a spindly or “leggy” appearance as the plant stretches.
Maintaining a stable temperature is equally important. The plant performs best between 60°F and 85°F, which aligns with standard indoor conditions. It can tolerate temperatures down to 50°F, but anything colder risks cold shock and damage.
Protect the plant from sudden temperature fluctuations. Avoid placing Kalanchoe near cold drafts from windows or close to heat vents and air conditioning units. Consistent, mild temperatures help the plant regulate its water uptake and energy usage.
Proper Watering and Drainage Techniques
As a succulent, Kalanchoe stores water in its fleshy leaves and stems, making it highly susceptible to root rot from overwatering. Use the “soak and dry” technique: thoroughly saturate the soil until water flows from the drainage holes, then allow the soil to dry out almost completely before watering again.
Check the moisture level by inserting a finger about two inches deep into the soil; if it feels dry, it is time to water. Frequency varies based on light and temperature, often ranging from one to three weeks. The pot must have drainage holes, and any excess water collected in the saucer must be immediately discarded.
The choice of potting mix directly impacts drainage. Kalanchoe requires a well-draining substrate, such as a commercial cactus or succulent mix. This mix typically contains materials like perlite or coarse sand to prevent compaction and waterlogging. Soggy soil causes mushy stems and yellowing leaves, which are signs of overwatering and root rot.
Watering should be significantly reduced during the cooler, darker winter months when the plant enters a period of slower growth. Since the plant utilizes less water then, overwatering is more likely to occur. It is always safer to underwater a Kalanchoe than to overwater it.
Promoting Seasonal Reblooming
Encouraging Kalanchoe to rebloom requires manipulating its light exposure, as it is a photoperiodic or “short-day” plant. It needs an extended, uninterrupted period of darkness daily to trigger new flower bud formation. This simulates the shorter days of late fall and early winter.
To initiate reblooming, provide 12 to 14 hours of complete darkness daily for six to eight weeks. This schedule typically begins in late autumn for a bloom in late winter or early spring. Even small amounts of light from a streetlamp or room light can disrupt the plant’s hormonal cycle, preventing bud development.
A practical method involves placing the plant in a closet or light-proof cabinet every evening and returning it to bright, indirect light the following morning. During this dark cycle, reduce watering to mimic a dormant period. Once visible flower buds form (usually after six weeks), the darkness treatment can stop, and the plant returns to its normal location.