Kalanchoe, often searched as “kunios,” is a popular succulent houseplant celebrated for its vibrant, long-lasting flowers. As a succulent, Kalanchoes feature thick, fleshy leaves that store water, contributing to their drought tolerance. Their striking visual impact and low maintenance make them a favored choice for plant enthusiasts.
Kalanchoe Care Essentials
Kalanchoes need bright, indirect sunlight for health and flowering, ideally from a south- or west-facing window indoors. Too much direct sun can scorch leaves and inhibit blooming, while insufficient light leads to leggy growth and sparse flowering. Observe the plant’s growth and leaf color to determine appropriate light levels.
Proper watering is crucial for Kalanchoes, as they are succulents susceptible to root rot from overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Check soil moisture by inserting a finger about two inches deep; water thoroughly until it drains from the pot’s bottom, but never let the plant sit in standing water.
The right soil mix and potting setup are important for Kalanchoe well-being. A well-draining potting medium, such as a succulent or cactus mix, is recommended to prevent waterlogging. A blend of 50% potting soil with 50% cactus mix or 40% perlite provides excellent drainage. Pots with drainage holes are essential, and clay pots can further help wick away excess moisture.
Kalanchoes prefer temperatures ranging from 60° to 85°F (15° to 29°C) and tolerate average household humidity levels. They are sensitive to cold, so protect them from drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C). Extreme heat without adequate ventilation can also cause stress.
Fertilizing supports healthy growth, but Kalanchoes do not require heavy feeding. During their active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength once a month. Reduce or cease fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows. Over-fertilization can lead to nutrient burn and harm the plant.
Encouraging Blooms and Maintenance
Kalanchoes are short-day plants; their flowering is triggered by specific periods of darkness. To encourage re-blooming, provide at least 14 hours of uninterrupted darkness each night for about six weeks. This can be achieved by placing the plant in a closet or dark room from evening until morning. After this dark period, the plant typically forms new flower buds, leading to another display of blooms.
After the Kalanchoe finishes blooming, deadheading (removing spent flowers) is beneficial. Pinch or cut off faded blooms at the base of the flower stalk. Deadheading improves appearance and redirects energy from seed production to foliage growth and future blooms. This practice maintains vigor and encourages a bushier growth habit.
Repotting and Propagation
Repotting a Kalanchoe is generally needed when the plant becomes root-bound, indicated by roots growing out of drainage holes or the plant appearing too large for its container. The most suitable time for repotting is after flowering. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the previous one, ensuring adequate drainage holes.
To repot, gently remove the plant from its old container, shaking off excess soil from the roots. Place a layer of fresh, well-draining succulent or cactus mix at the bottom of the new pot. Center the Kalanchoe, then backfill with more soil, leaving about a half-inch of space from the rim to prevent water spillage. After repotting, water the plant lightly and allow it to settle into its new environment.
Kalanchoes can be readily propagated through stem cuttings, providing an easy way to expand your collection.
Taking Cuttings
To take a cutting, select a healthy, non-flowering stem with at least four to five leaves. Using sterile scissors, cut a segment of the stem, removing the lower two to three sets of leaves. Allow the cutting to dry and form a callus at the cut end for two to three days; this step helps prevent rot.
Planting Cuttings
Once the cutting has callused, it can be dipped in rooting hormone if desired, though it’s not always necessary. Plant the callused end into a pot filled with well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Keep the soil lightly moist and place the pot in bright, indirect light. New roots and leaf growth should appear within a few weeks, indicating successful propagation.
Troubleshooting Common Kalanchoe Problems
Kalanchoes are generally robust, but they can occasionally encounter pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids and mealybugs, which may appear on new growth or undersides of leaves. These can often be managed by gently wiping them off with a damp cloth or applying insecticidal soap. Root rot, a common disease, typically results from overwatering and manifests as mushy stems or wilting. Allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings is an important preventative measure.
Leaf discoloration and wilting often indicate environmental stress. Yellowing leaves can point to overwatering, while browning or crispy leaves may suggest underwatering or excessive direct sunlight. Wilting can stem from both overwatering (due to root damage) and severe underwatering. Addressing the specific watering issue and adjusting light exposure helps the plant recover.
A common concern is a lack of Kalanchoe blooms. This frequently occurs when the plant does not receive the necessary period of uninterrupted darkness to trigger flowering. Insufficient light intensity during the day can also hinder bloom production. Incorrect watering or fertilizing practices can stress the plant, diverting energy from flower development. Re-establishing proper light cycles and consistent care encourages blooming.