Kalanchoe plants are a popular choice for indoor gardening enthusiasts, admired for their vibrant and long-lasting blooms. These succulent plants, originating from Madagascar, bring a splash of color to any indoor space with their clusters of small, four-petaled flowers in various shades of red, pink, orange, yellow, and white. Repotting is a necessary step in ensuring their continued health and vigorous growth. This process provides fresh nutrients and ample space for root development.
Why and When to Repot Kalanchoe
Several indicators suggest a Kalanchoe plant is ready for repotting. The most common sign is when roots begin to emerge from the drainage holes, indicating the plant has become root-bound. Other cues include stunted growth, the soil drying out much faster than usual, or the plant becoming top-heavy and unstable. A diminished appearance of the soil, or a white crust on its surface, also signals depleted nutrients and the need for a fresh growing medium.
The optimal time for repotting a Kalanchoe is spring or early summer. This period aligns with the plant’s active growing season, allowing it to recover quickly from transplanting. Repot after the plant has finished its blooming cycle, as repotting during flowering can cause stress.
How to Repot Kalanchoe
Choosing the Right Pot and Soil
Selecting an appropriate pot is important for the Kalanchoe’s health. The chosen pot must always have drainage holes to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to root rot. Terracotta pots are beneficial as their porous nature allows for better airflow and helps prevent moisture buildup in the soil. When increasing the pot size, select one that is only one size larger than the current container, as an excessively large pot can retain too much moisture, potentially harming the roots.
The Kalanchoe thrives in a well-draining soil mix that prevents waterlogging. A commercial succulent or cactus potting mix is recommended due to its sandy texture and good drainage properties. For enhanced aeration and drainage, amend a standard potting soil by incorporating perlite or coarse sand in a ratio of one part perlite or sand to two parts potting soil. This custom blend ensures the roots receive adequate oxygen and are not sitting in overly damp conditions.
Step-by-Step Repotting Process
Water your Kalanchoe thoroughly one to two days in advance. This practice helps loosen the soil from the pot walls, making it easier to remove the plant without damaging the root ball. Gather your new pot, fresh soil mix, and a small trowel or scoop. Gently tilt the current pot and carefully slide the plant out, supporting the base of the stems.
Once the plant is out, gently shake off as much of the old soil as possible from the root ball. Inspect the roots, trimming any that appear damaged, mushy, or overly long. Add a layer of the new, well-draining soil mix to the bottom of the new pot. Position the Kalanchoe in the center of the new pot, ensuring the plant’s base is at the same level as it was in its previous container.
Carefully fill the remaining space around the root ball with the fresh soil mix, gently tamping it down to remove any large air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too densely, as this can impede drainage and root growth. Leave about an inch of space from the rim of the pot to allow for watering without overflow.
After Repotting Care
After repotting, it is important to provide specific care to help your Kalanchoe adjust to its new environment. Give the plant a light watering immediately after transplanting, allowing excess water to drain completely from the bottom of the pot. This initial watering helps settle the new soil around the roots without oversaturating them.
Place the newly repotted Kalanchoe in a location that receives bright, indirect light. Direct, intense sunlight immediately after repotting can stress the plant, hindering its recovery. Monitor the soil moisture, allowing the top layer to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root issues. Avoid resuming fertilization for at least a few weeks, typically three to four weeks, to allow the plant time to establish itself in the fresh, nutrient-rich soil.