Kalanchoe, a vibrant succulent houseplant, is cherished for its long-lasting, colorful blooms. Originating from Madagascar, this resilient plant is a favorite due to its easy care. Thriving indoors, it’s an excellent choice for adding natural beauty to any home. This guide provides insights into cultivating a healthy Kalanchoe.
Kalanchoe Care Essentials
Light
Kalanchoe plants flourish in bright, indirect light. Placing them near an east or west-facing window provides ideal illumination without harsh direct sun. While they can tolerate some morning sun, intense afternoon sunlight can scorch leaves, leading to discoloration or damage. Insufficient light, conversely, results in leggy growth and fewer blooms.
Water
Proper watering is fundamental for Kalanchoe’s health, as succulents store water in their thick leaves and stems. The “soak and dry” method is most effective: water thoroughly until excess drains, then allow to dry completely before the next watering. Overwatering is a common pitfall, leading to root rot and moisture-related issues. During cooler months, watering frequency should be significantly reduced.
Soil
Well-draining soil is crucial for Kalanchoe, preventing waterlogging and promoting healthy root development. A specialized succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended, as these mixes provide excellent drainage and aeration. Regular potting soil can be amended with perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage if a succulent mix is unavailable. The right soil mix ensures roots do not sit in stagnant water, which quickly leads to decay.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe plants prefer average room temperatures, generally 65°F to 80°F (18°C-27°C). They are not tolerant of cold and should be protected from drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Average household humidity is usually sufficient, as they do not require high humidity. Excessive humidity with poor air circulation can sometimes lead to fungal problems.
Fertilizer
During its active growing season (spring and summer), Kalanchoe benefits from light fertilization. A balanced liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied every two to four weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the plant’s dormant period in fall and winter. Over-fertilization can harm the plant; it is better to under-fertilize than over-fertilize.
Encouraging Blooms
To encourage Kalanchoe to re-bloom, simulate its natural short-day conditions. This involves providing 14 to 16 hours of darkness daily for six to eight weeks. During this time, the plant should receive bright, indirect light for the remaining 8 to 10 hours. Consistent adherence to this light cycle is essential for new flower bud formation.
Deadheading spent blooms promotes continuous flowering and maintains the plant’s aesthetic appeal. Removing faded flowers diverts the plant’s energy from seed production back into developing new blooms. This also helps prevent fungal issues from decaying plant material. After the re-blooming cycle, the plant can return to its regular light exposure.
Propagating Kalanchoe
Propagating Kalanchoe is straightforward, commonly achieved through stem or leaf cuttings. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem 2-4 inches long, making a clean cut below a leaf node. Remove lower leaves from the cutting to expose the stem. Leaf cuttings involve detaching a healthy, intact leaf from the main plant.
After taking either cutting, allow it to callus for a few days in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent rot. Once the cut end has dried and formed a callus, plant the cutting in a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Keep the soil lightly moist; roots typically form within two to four weeks. New plantlets will eventually emerge from the base of leaf cuttings.
Troubleshooting Common Kalanchoe Problems
Leggy growth, characterized by long, stretched stems with sparse leaves, often indicates insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight can rectify this issue. Yellowing leaves can signal overwatering (suffocating roots) or underwatering (dehydration). Adjusting the watering schedule based on soil moisture usually resolves this problem.
Brown spots on Kalanchoe leaves may signal sunburn from direct, intense sunlight, or a fungal issue if conditions are too humid. Relocating the plant to a shadier spot or improving air circulation can mitigate these concerns. Common pests like aphids and mealybugs can infest Kalanchoe, often appearing as small, sticky insects or cottony masses. These can be managed by gently wiping them off with a damp cloth or using an insecticidal soap formulated for houseplants.