Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, commonly known as Flaming Katy, is a popular succulent with vibrant, long-lasting blooms. Though often grown indoors, it can thrive outdoors in suitable climates. Understanding its specific needs helps gardeners successfully grow it outside.
Moving Flaming Katy Outdoors
Moving Flaming Katy outdoors requires careful timing and a gradual approach. The ideal time is after all danger of frost has passed, typically when nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 50°F (10°C). This prevents damage from sudden cold snaps.
Hardening off is crucial to prevent shock. Begin by placing the plant in a sheltered outdoor spot with partial shade for a few hours daily. Over one to two weeks, gradually increase its exposure to more sunlight and longer periods outdoors. This slow acclimatization allows the plant to adjust to stronger sunlight, fluctuating temperatures, and increased air movement.
Caring for Outdoor Flaming Katy
Once established outdoors, Flaming Katy plants benefit from consistent care tailored to their new surroundings. Providing the right conditions ensures healthy growth and abundant flowering throughout the season.
Light Needs
Flaming Katy thrives in bright, indirect light or partial shade. While ample light promotes blooming, direct, intense afternoon sun can scorch its leaves. Position the plant where it receives morning sun and afternoon shade, or filtered light throughout the day.
Watering
Watering outdoor Flaming Katy must account for rainfall and humidity. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot, a common succulent issue. Water thoroughly until it drains from the pot bottom, then wait until the top few inches of soil are dry before re-watering.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is paramount for outdoor Flaming Katy. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended, as these provide aeration and drainage. If using a general potting mix, amend it with perlite, coarse sand, or pumice at a 1:2 ratio to improve drainage.
Temperature and Climate
Flaming Katy prefers warm temperatures and is sensitive to frost. It can be grown year-round outdoors only in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9 through 11. In regions with colder winters, treat the plant as an annual or bring it indoors before temperatures consistently fall below 50°F (10°C).
Fertilizing
Fertilizing outdoor Flaming Katy supports growth and flowering during its active season, typically spring and summer. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the plant’s dormant period or immediately after transplanting.
Common Outdoor Challenges
Growing Flaming Katy outdoors presents specific challenges. Pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites can affect the plant. Regularly inspect leaves and stems, especially undersides, for early detection. Manage pests with a strong water spray or insecticidal soap.
Fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew or botrytis, can occur with excessive humidity or poor air circulation. Proper plant spacing and avoiding overhead watering mitigate these issues. Sun scorch, appearing as bleached or browned spots, results from insufficient acclimatization or prolonged intense direct sunlight.
Preparing for Winter
For gardeners in regions where winter temperatures fall below 50°F (10°C), preparing Flaming Katy for colder months is essential. The plant is not frost-tolerant and will suffer damage if left outdoors in freezing conditions. Bring it inside before nighttime temperatures consistently drop below this threshold.
Before moving indoors, thoroughly inspect the plant for pests on leaves, stems, and soil. Once inside, place it in a bright location with indirect light and maintain moderate temperatures. Reduce watering frequency during winter, allowing the soil to dry more completely between applications, as growth slows.