Kalanchoe, often mistakenly called “Nancho,” is a popular succulent houseplant. Cherished for its robust nature and vibrant, long-lasting flowers, it brings a splash of color to indoor spaces.
Kalanchoe Plant Care
Kalanchoe plants thrive in bright, indirect light, needing 6 to 8 hours daily. Direct afternoon sun can scorch their fleshy leaves. Insufficient light results in leggy, stretched growth.
As succulents, Kalanchoes store water in their leaves and are susceptible to overwatering, which often leads to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, when the top 1-2 inches feel dry. Water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain from the pot’s drainage holes.
These plants prefer a well-draining soil mix, ideally a blend for succulents or cacti. A mixture of potting soil and cactus mix, or potting soil with perlite, prevents waterlogging. Terracotta or clay pots can also help wick away excess moisture.
Kalanchoes are adaptable to average room temperatures, generally thriving between 55°F and 85°F (12.8°C to 29.4°C). They do not require high humidity and are well-suited to standard indoor humidity levels. Protecting them from cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C) is important for their well-being.
Kalanchoes are not heavy feeders and can thrive with minimal fertilization. If you choose to fertilize, a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half-strength can be applied once a month during their active growing season, typically in spring and summer. Reducing or ceasing fertilization during fall and winter is advisable as the plant enters a dormant phase.
Encouraging Kalanchoe Blooms
To encourage Kalanchoe plants to re-bloom, mimicking their natural light cycle is important. As “short-day plants,” they require a period of extended darkness to initiate flower bud formation. Providing 12 to 14 hours of uninterrupted darkness daily for about six to eight weeks is effective for triggering new blooms. During the remaining hours, the plant should receive bright, indirect light.
Consistency in this dark period is crucial, as even brief light exposure can disrupt the budding process. Once flowers have faded, gently removing the spent blooms, a process known as deadheading, redirects the plant’s energy towards producing new foliage and subsequent flowers. Regular pruning of spent blooms helps maintain the plant’s appearance and promotes continuous flowering.
Propagating Kalanchoe
Propagating Kalanchoe plants is a straightforward process, often achieved using stem cuttings. A healthy stem cutting, several inches long with at least two leaves, should be taken from a non-flowering part of the plant, ideally in spring or summer. After taking the cutting, allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for one to three days, which helps prevent rot and disease.
Once the cutting has callused, it can be planted directly into a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Inserting the cutting into the moist soil and lightly patting it down helps it remain upright. Placing the potted cutting in bright, indirect light and maintaining consistent moisture in the soil will encourage root development within a few weeks.
Common Kalanchoe Problems
Overwatering is a frequent issue for Kalanchoe plants, often leading to yellowing or mushy leaves and soft, fragile stems, indicating root rot. Ensuring the soil dries out between waterings and using well-draining soil can prevent this problem. Conversely, crispy or brown leaf edges can signal underwatering or excessive direct sunlight.
Insufficient light can cause Kalanchoes to become leggy, with stretched stems and a lack of vibrant blooms. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect light typically resolves this. Common pests like aphids and mealybugs may appear, but they can often be managed by wiping them off or treating the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil for larger infestations.
Kalanchoe Toxicity
Kalanchoe plants are considered toxic to both humans and pets, including dogs and cats. They contain cardiac glycosides, specifically bufadienolides, which can affect the heart. Ingestion typically results in gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea.
While mild symptoms are most common, consuming larger quantities can lead to more severe issues, including changes in heart rate and rhythm, weakness, and collapse. It is advisable to keep Kalanchoe plants out of reach of curious pets and children to prevent accidental ingestion.