The Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) is a popular houseplant celebrated for its bright, long-lasting flowers in vibrant shades of red, orange, pink, and yellow. Originating from Madagascar, this succulent stores water in its thick, waxy leaves, allowing it to thrive in arid conditions. Encouraging the plant to thrive and rebloom for years requires understanding its specific environmental needs.
Environmental Essentials
The Kalanchoe requires bright, indirect sunlight to maintain health and encourage future flowering. Placing the plant in an east- or west-facing window is ideal, ensuring it receives gentle light without the harsh intensity of direct midday sun, which can scorch the foliage. Insufficient light causes the plant to become “leggy,” stretching its stems and inhibiting flower bud production.
Standard indoor temperatures suit this plant well, with an optimal range between 60°F and 80°F during the day. Protect the plant from cold drafts, especially in winter, as temperatures consistently below 50°F can cause foliage damage. Maintaining a stable, warm environment supports robust growth.
Proper Watering and Substrate
The Flaming Katy is highly susceptible to root rot. Since its leaves store water, it requires infrequent watering, and the soil must be allowed to dry out completely between applications. Assess the moisture level by inserting a finger about two inches into the potting mix; if it feels dry, water the plant thoroughly.
Use the “soak and dry” method, applying water until it flows freely from the drainage holes, then immediately discarding any excess water in the saucer. This prevents the roots from sitting in standing water, which promotes fungal growth and decay. A fast-draining medium, such as a commercial cactus or succulent potting mix, is necessary. The pot must also have a functional drainage hole to prevent water retention.
Encouraging Flowers To Return
Encouraging the Kalanchoe to bloom again centers on its nature as a “short-day” plant, requiring extended periods of uninterrupted darkness to initiate flower bud formation. Once flowers fade, remove them carefully through deadheading to redirect the plant’s energy away from seed production. Prune the spent flower stalks down to the first set of healthy leaves to prepare the plant for its rest period.
To trigger reblooming, subject the plant to a strict schedule of 12 to 14 hours of total darkness every day for six to eight weeks. During the day, the Kalanchoe needs bright light, but at night, it must be placed in a completely dark location, such as a closet or under an opaque box, with no light exposure. Once small flower buds appear, return the plant to its normal location and resume regular watering and feeding.
Handling Pests and Common Problems
The most frequent issue encountered with the Flaming Katy is root rot, which appears as soft, blackened stems or yellowing, drooping leaves, all caused by overwatering. The immediate solution is to stop watering and allow the soil to dry out completely. In severe cases, repotting into fresh, dry soil may be necessary after trimming away any damaged roots.
Kalanchoes can also be targeted by common houseplant pests, primarily mealybugs and aphids. Mealybugs appear as small, white, cottony masses clustered at leaf joints or along the stems, while aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects found on new growth. For small infestations, dabbing the pests directly with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol is effective. Larger populations may require treatment with an insecticidal soap spray applied thoroughly to all plant surfaces.