Kalanchoe plants are popular succulents, known for their vibrant, long-lasting blooms and attractive foliage. Native to Madagascar and other tropical regions, light is the most important factor for their health, vigorous growth, and abundant flowers. Providing the specific light conditions these plants need is fundamental to their success.
Understanding Ideal Kalanchoe Light
Kalanchoe plants flourish in bright, indirect light. This means placing them where they receive ample illumination without direct exposure to harsh midday sun. An ideal indoor spot is near a south or west-facing window, where light is strong but diffused, perhaps through a sheer curtain. If no curtain is used, setting the plant a few feet back from the window helps.
These succulents require 6 to 8 hours of bright light daily for robust growth. Prolonged direct sun can damage their leaves. Insufficient light hinders healthy development, leading to weak stems and lack of vigor.
Light for Kalanchoe Blooming
Kalanchoe plants are “short-day” plants; their flowering cycle is triggered by specific periods of darkness. To encourage reblooming, they need a consistent regimen of uninterrupted darkness, typically 12 to 14 hours daily for 6 to 8 weeks.
During the day, plants should receive their usual bright, indirect light. Achieving darkness can be done by moving the plant to a dark closet or covering it completely with a box or dark cloth. This darkness must be absolute and consistent, as minor light interruptions can delay or prevent flower bud formation. This controlled light cycle mimics natural seasonal cues, prompting new blooms.
Recognizing Kalanchoe Light Imbalance
Observing your Kalanchoe’s appearance indicates whether it receives too much or too little light. With excessive light, leaves may develop scorched spots or reddish discoloration, especially along the edges. Foliage might also appear faded, and overall growth can be stunted.
Conversely, a Kalanchoe not receiving enough light will show distinct symptoms. Stems may become stretched and leggy as the plant attempts to reach for more light. Leaves might turn pale green or yellow, and new growth can appear smaller. Lack of adequate light is a primary reason why a Kalanchoe may fail to produce flowers.
Adjusting Kalanchoe Light Conditions
When a Kalanchoe shows signs of too much light, adjustments can protect the plant. Moving it further from a bright window or placing it behind a sheer curtain can diffuse intense sunlight. Relocating the plant to an east-facing window, which receives gentler morning sun, is also beneficial.
For plants with insufficient light, moving them closer to a brighter window, such as a south or west-facing exposure, is effective. If natural light is inadequate, supplemental grow lights can provide intensity. Full-spectrum LED or fluorescent grow lights, used for 8 to 10 hours daily, improve a Kalanchoe’s health and encourage blooming. To stimulate reblooming, providing 12-14 hours of uninterrupted darkness for 6-8 weeks is essential. This consistent dark period initiates the plant’s natural flowering process.