Lucky Bells (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) is a popular houseplant known for its vibrant, long-lasting flowers. This succulent adds a burst of color to indoor spaces.
Meet Your Lucky Bells Plant
Lucky Bells (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) is a flowering succulent native to Madagascar. It typically grows as a compact, bushy plant, reaching 6 to 18 inches tall and 6 to 12 inches wide. The plant features thick, glossy, dark green leaves with scalloped edges. Clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers emerge above the foliage, displaying a wide range of colors including red, pink, yellow, orange, and white. These vibrant blooms are known for their longevity.
Essential Lucky Bells Care
Light
Lucky Bells thrive in bright, indirect light. A south or east-facing window is often suitable, providing ample light without harsh, direct afternoon sun, which can scorch leaves.
Watering
Water Lucky Bells carefully, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. This prevents overwatering, which can cause root rot. During the active growing season, water every 7-10 days. In cooler months, reduce watering to every two to three weeks.
Soil and Drainage
Use a well-draining potting mix for Lucky Bells, such as a blend formulated for succulents or cacti, or potting soil mixed with perlite or coarse sand. Always use a pot with drainage holes.
Temperature and Humidity
Lucky Bells prefer average room temperatures, ideally between 60-80°F (15-27°C). They tolerate average indoor humidity. Protect them from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C), which can damage the plant.
Fertilizing
Fertilize Lucky Bells during the spring and summer growing season. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks, diluted to half strength. Reduce or stop fertilization during fall and winter when the plant is dormant.
Encouraging Blooms and Healthy Growth
Deadheading
Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering and maintain an attractive plant. Removing withered flowers redirects the plant’s energy towards producing new buds rather than seeds.
Pruning
Light pruning helps maintain the plant’s shape and encourages bushier growth. After flowering, typically in late winter or early spring, trim back leggy stems to promote new growth. Regularly remove any yellowing or dead leaves for overall plant health.
Reblooming
To encourage reblooming, mimic the plant’s natural light cycle. Provide a period of extended darkness, about 12-14 hours daily for six weeks. During this time, cooler night temperatures (around 50-60°F or 10-15°C) are beneficial. After this dark period, return the plant to bright, indirect light to stimulate new flower buds.
Troubleshooting Common Lucky Bells Problems
No Blooms
If your Lucky Bells plant is not blooming, check its light exposure. Insufficient light or an inconsistent dark period can prevent bud formation. Ensure the plant receives adequate darkness and bright, indirect light during its respective cycles.
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves often indicate overwatering. When soil remains too wet, roots can suffer, leading to discoloration. Yellow leaves can also suggest a nutrient deficiency. Adjust watering practices and ensure proper drainage to resolve this.
Mushy Stems and Root Rot
Mushy stems and root rot are direct consequences of persistent overwatering. These conditions occur when roots sit in waterlogged soil. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and ensure the pot has drainage holes as preventive measures.
Leggy Growth
Leggy growth, characterized by stretched stems with sparse leaves, indicates insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter location with more indirect sunlight. Pruning back leggy growth can also encourage a bushier, more compact form.
Pests
Lucky Bells can occasionally encounter common houseplant pests like aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Inspect the plant regularly to detect infestations early. Treat pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil.