Flowering kalanchoes are cheerful, low-maintenance, colorful succulents that brighten up any windowsill. These compact plants are popular gifts during the holidays and make excellent houseplants year-round. With proper care, kalanchoes can thrive for years, rewarding you with repeated flowering cycles. This guide will explore how to grow and care for flowering kalanchoes, from basic maintenance to encouraging reblooming.
What Is Kalanchoe?
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, commonly known as flowering kalanchoe, is a succulent plant prized for its clusters of small, vibrant flowers. A relative of the jade plant, kalanchoes are native to Madagascar but have become popular worldwide as indoor plants. They typically grow 6–12 inches tall, with thick, waxy leaves and long-lasting blooms in shades of pink, red, orange, yellow, and white.
While K. blossfeldiana is the most common variety, there are many other types of kalanchoe. Some feature unique foliage or trailing growth habits, but all kalanchoes share similar care requirements, making them ideal for both novice and experienced indoor gardeners.
Kalanchoe Growing Tips
Kalanchoes are relatively easy to care for, but they do have some specific needs to thrive. Here are the big things to consider when growing these colorful succulents:
Light
Kalanchoes need plenty of bright, indirect light to flourish. A south-facing window is ideal in winter, while an east or west-facing window works well in summer. If the plant becomes leggy or stretched out, it’s likely not getting enough light. However, be cautious of harsh, direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Soil
Kalanchoes also need well-draining soil in order to flourish. Use a potting mix designed for cacti and succulents, or create your own by adding perlite or coarse sand to regular potting soil. This ensures excess water drains quickly, preventing root rot.
Temperature
These plants prefer average room temperatures between 60–75°F (15-24°C). Keep kalanchoes away from cold drafts and heat sources. They can tolerate brief periods of cooler temperatures but should never be exposed to frost.
Water
Overwatering is the most common mistake when caring for kalanchoes. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. When you do water, do so thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. Always empty the saucer beneath the pot to prevent the plant from sitting in water.
Fertilizer
During the growing season (spring and summer), feed kalanchoes every few weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce or eliminate fertilizer during the fall and winter months when growth slows.
Pots and Repotting
Clay pots are excellent for kalanchoes as they allow excess moisture to evaporate. Ensure any pot has drainage holes. These plants prefer to be slightly root-bound, so repotting is only necessary every few years or when the plant outgrows its current container.
How To Make Kalanchoe Bloom
One of the most rewarding aspects of growing kalanchoes is encouraging them to rebloom. Many people discard these plants after their initial flowering period, but with some care and patience, it’s possible to enjoy multiple blooming cycles. Here’s how to trigger flowering in kalanchoes.
Understanding Photoperiodism
Kalanchoes are photoperiodic, meaning they bloom in response to changes in day length. In nature, they typically flower in early spring. To encourage blooming at other times, you need to simulate winter light conditions.
Reducing Water and Light
About six weeks before you want the plant to bloom, reduce watering by half. This mimics the drier conditions of winter and signals the plant to prepare for flowering.
Creating Artificial Darkness
For six weeks, provide the kalanchoe with 14 hours of complete darkness each day, followed by 10 hours of bright light. This can be achieved by moving the plant to a dark closet or covering it with a light-proof box. After the six-week period, resume normal light exposure and watering when flower buds appear.
How Do I Main and Propagate Kalanchoes?
Regular maintenance helps keep kalanchoes looking their best:
- Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance.
- Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth to remove dust, which can interfere with photosynthesis.
- Prune leggy stems to maintain the plant’s compact shape.
Kalanchoes are easy to propagate, making them great for sharing or expanding your collection:
- Take stem cuttings in spring or summer, allowing the cut end to callus over for a day before planting in well-draining soil.
- Some varieties produce small plantlets along the leaf edges. These can be gently removed and potted once they develop roots.
What Are Common Kalanchoe Problems and Solutions?
While kalanchoes are generally hardy, they can face a few issues:
- Overwatering: If leaves become soft or translucent, reduce watering frequency.
- Pest infestations: Watch for mealybugs or spider mites. Treat with insecticidal soap if spotted.
- Leggy growth: Increase light exposure and prune as needed.
- Failure to bloom: Ensure the plant receives proper light cycles and avoid fertilizing during the flowering induction period.
You should also carefully monitor the plant for signs of stress or poor health. Identifying problems early can prevent more serious issues down the line and helps ensure that your kalanchoe remains vibrant and healthy. Here’s a breakdown of potential stress signs and their remedies:
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves can indicate several problems, from nutrient deficiencies to overwatering. Check your watering schedule and adjust as needed. If you suspect nutrient issues, you can introduce a balanced fertilizer but make sure it’s properly diluted to prevent further stress on the plant.
Dropping Leaves
Leaf drop can be a common response to environmental stress, such as abrupt changes in temperature or lighting. Gradually acclimate your kalanchoe to new conditions to avoid shocking the plant. Consistency in care routines helps maintain balance and reduces the likelihood of leaf drop.
Root Rot
Root rot is often caused by prolonged exposure to damp soil. If you notice mushy roots or a foul smell, you need to act quickly. Remove the affected parts of the plant and cut back to healthy tissue. Re-pot the kalanchoe in fresh, well-draining soil and restrict watering until recovery is evident.
Advanced Care for Kalanchoe Enthusiasts
If you want to delve deeper into kalanchoe cultivation, here are some advanced techniques and practices that can further enhance your plant’s growth and longevity.
Pruning Techniques
Advanced pruning methods can encourage fuller, bushier growth. Pinching back new growth periodically can help maintain a compact and attractive shape. This technique also stimulates the plant to produce more lateral shoots, leading to increased blooming potential.
Seasonal Adjustments
Making seasonal adjustments to your care routine can improve the health and flowering cycle of your kalanchoe. During the growing season, focus on providing ample light and regular, balanced fertilization. In autumn and winter, taper off feeding and reduce watering to mimic the plant’s natural dormant phase.
Monitoring Humidity
While kalanchoes generally thrive in average indoor humidity, keeping an eye on humidity levels can prevent stress. Using a hygrometer can help you maintain a stable environment. If indoor air is too dry, especially in winter, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant to boost humidity levels.
Beneficial Companion Plants
You may also want to pair your kalanchoe with other succulents or low-water houseplants. These companions can create an attractive arrangement and share similar care requirements. But, you need to make sure there’s plenty of air circulation between plants to prevent fungal issues and keep all plants healthy.
