Kalanchoe plants are popular flowering succulents known for their vibrant, long-lasting blooms. These plants offer a wide array of colors, including red, orange, yellow, and pink, favored for indoor spaces. From tropical regions, particularly Madagascar, Kalanchoes are appreciated for their easy care and diverse varieties. Their thick, fleshy leaves complement the bright flower clusters, adding to their ornamental appeal.
Kalanchoe Plant Care
Kalanchoes thrive with specific environmental conditions. Understanding these ensures health and abundant flowers. Proper light, watering, soil, temperature, humidity, and fertilizing are important for optimal growth.
Light
Kalanchoes flourish in bright, indirect sunlight. A south or west-facing window is ideal for indoor cultivation. While they tolerate some direct sun, intense afternoon rays can scorch leaves. Insufficient light leads to leggy growth and hinders flower production. Provide at least six to eight hours of bright light daily.
Watering
As succulents, Kalanchoes store water in their leaves, requiring minimal water. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Overwatering can cause the stem to rot, leading to limp, discolored leaves. Check the top two inches of soil to determine watering needs, typically every one to two weeks during the growing season and less frequently in winter.
Soil
Kalanchoes require well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging. A succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended, or a blend of potting soil with perlite or sand for drainage. Examples include 50% potting soil and 50% cactus mix, or 60% potting soil and 40% perlite. Clay or terracotta pots are also helpful, as these porous materials wick away excess moisture.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoes prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 55°F and 80°F. They tolerate average indoor humidity levels and are not particular. Protect them from temperatures below 55°F, as they are sensitive to cold and frost. Avoid drafts, heating vents, or air conditioners to maintain stable temperatures.
Fertilizing
Kalanchoes benefit from fertilization during their active growing season, from spring to early fall. They are not heavy feeders, so a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength applied monthly or every 4-6 weeks is sufficient. Over-fertilizing, especially with high-nitrogen formulas, can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering. During winter or dormant periods, reduce or stop fertilization.
Encouraging Kalanchoe Rebloom
Kalanchoes are short-day plants; their blooming cycle is triggered by specific periods of darkness. To encourage rebloom, reduced light exposure is necessary. This involves 14 hours of uninterrupted darkness each night for six to eight weeks.
During this period, the plant should be kept in complete darkness, avoiding artificial light. A common method is to place the plant in a dark closet or cover it with a box from late afternoon until morning. While undergoing this darkness treatment, reduce watering and withhold fertilizing. Once flower buds begin to form, the plant can return to its regular care routine.
Propagating Kalanchoe
Kalanchoes are easy to propagate using stem or leaf cuttings. The process involves simple steps for successful rooting.
To propagate, select a healthy stem cutting two to three inches long with at least two pairs of leaves. Remove lower leaves and allow the cut end to callus for a few days. Callusing prevents rot. Rooting hormone is optional. Plant the callused end into a well-draining soil mix, similar to that for a mature Kalanchoe, covering the nodes with soil. Place the cutting in bright, indirect light and water sparingly until roots establish, which occurs within a month.
Common Kalanchoe Problems
Kalanchoes are resilient, but they can encounter common issues. Recognizing symptoms and implementing timely solutions helps maintain plant health. These problems typically involve pests or diseases.
Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites can affect Kalanchoes. They are identified by their presence on leaves and stems, causing distortion or discoloration. A mild soap solution can treat affected areas. Root rot is another frequent problem, resulting from overwatering or poorly draining soil. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, or a soft, discolored stem/roots. Addressing root rot involves improving drainage, reducing watering frequency, and, in severe cases, repotting the plant after trimming away damaged roots. Fungal infections like powdery mildew can occur due to excessive moisture or insufficient airflow.
Kalanchoe Toxicity
While Kalanchoes are appreciated for their beauty, be aware of their toxicity, especially around pets and young children. The plant is toxic if ingested.
Kalanchoe contains compounds that cause adverse reactions in animals, particularly cats and dogs. Symptoms include gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Rarely, more serious effects like abnormal heart rhythm occur. To ensure safety, place Kalanchoes in locations inaccessible to pets and small children.