The Kalanchoe is a popular succulent houseplant cherished for its vibrant, long-lasting blooms. Its bright clusters of flowers come in various colors, including red, pink, yellow, orange, and white. Its succulent nature means it stores water in its leaves, contributing to its drought tolerance and relatively easy-care requirements.
Kalanchoe Care Essentials
Light
Kalanchoe plants thrive in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing them near a south or west-facing window is ideal to provide the 6 to 8 hours of bright light they need. While they can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense afternoon sunlight can scorch their leaves. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced flowering.
Water
Proper watering is important for Kalanchoe, as they are succulents and susceptible to root rot from overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Check the top 2 inches of soil; if dry, water thoroughly until it drains from the pot bottom. Reduce watering frequency during cooler, darker winter months.
Soil
Kalanchoe plants require a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging. A potting mix specifically formulated for cacti or succulents is suitable. Combine potting soil with perlite or pumice to enhance drainage and aeration. Terra cotta pots can further aid in wicking away excess moisture.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe plants prefer warm temperatures, between 55°F and 85°F. They are sensitive to cold and will not tolerate freezing temperatures; bring them indoors when temperatures drop below 55°F. Kalanchoe adapt well to average household humidity, requiring no special adjustments.
Fertilizer
Kalanchoe plants benefit from fertilization during their active growing season, from spring through summer. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, monthly during this period. Do not fertilize during the plant’s dormant phase in fall and winter. If flowering is sparse, a phosphorus-rich fertilizer can help encourage more blooms.
Encouraging Kalanchoe Rebloom
Encouraging a Kalanchoe to rebloom involves mimicking its natural light cycles. These plants are “short-day” plants, meaning they require extended periods of darkness to initiate flower bud formation. To prompt reblooming, provide the plant with 12 to 14 hours of uninterrupted darkness daily for six to eight weeks. Achieve this dark period by placing the plant in a dark closet or covering it with an opaque box.
During the remaining 10 to 12 hours, the plant should receive bright, indirect light. Consistency is important during this phase, as even brief light exposure during the dark period can disrupt bud development. Maintaining a cooler nighttime temperature (around 60°F) also assists in budding. Once flower buds appear, return the plant to normal bright light conditions and resume regular watering and feeding. Removing spent blooms (deadheading) redirects the plant’s energy towards producing new flowers.
Propagating Kalanchoe
Propagating Kalanchoe from stem cuttings is a common method for creating new plants. Begin by selecting a healthy, non-flowering stem a few inches long with several leaves. Use clean, sharp scissors or a knife to cut just below a leaf node. After cutting, allow the end to dry and form a callus for two to three days; this prevents rot when planted.
Once the cutting has callused, plant it in a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Insert the callused end into the soil, ensuring no leaves are buried. Lightly water the soil to moisten it, but avoid overwatering. Place the potted cutting in bright, indirect light and maintain slight soil moisture to encourage root development, which typically occurs within a few weeks.
Common Kalanchoe Issues
Pests
Kalanchoe plants may encounter common houseplant pests such as aphids and mealybugs. Aphids are tiny, often green or black insects that cluster on new growth and undersides of leaves, sucking sap. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses, found in leaf axils or on stems. Regular inspection helps early detection, and organic solutions like insecticidal soap can manage infestations.
Diseases
Fungal diseases are a common concern for Kalanchoe, especially when conditions are too wet or air circulation is poor. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves and stems. Root rot, often caused by overwatering, leads to soft, mushy roots and wilting. Proper drainage and allowing soil to dry between waterings can prevent these issues.
Physiological Problems
Improper care can lead to several physiological problems. Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering or poor drainage, leading to root damage. Wilting can signal either insufficient watering or severe root rot from overwatering. Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems and sparse leaves, results from inadequate light exposure. A lack of blooms, despite a healthy plant, is due to an incorrect light cycle, where the plant does not receive enough uninterrupted darkness to initiate flowering.