Kalanchoe, specifically Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, is a popular tropical perennial succulent that has garnered the admiration of plant enthusiasts worldwide. Its easy-care nature coupled with its vibrant, long-lasting blooms make it a desirable addition to any indoor or outdoor garden.
II. Kalanchoe Overview
Belonging to the Crassulaceae family, Kalanchoe is a diverse genus that boasts over 125 species of plants. Among these, Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, often referred to as the ‘Flaming Katy’, is a favorite due to its brilliant floral display.
This native of Madagascar is a succulent perennial, featuring scallop-shaped, fleshy, rich green leaves that make the perfect backdrop for its clusters of flowers. The Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is a close relative of the jade plant, and like its cousin, it thrives in arid environments.
Though it’s a popular houseplant, Kalanchoe does contain compounds that are toxic to both cats and dogs, so pet owners should exercise caution.
III. Care for Kalanchoe
Light Requirements
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana requires plenty of light to stimulate its blooming cycle. If the plant is outdoors, it should be in a spot that receives full sun. Indoors, it requires bright, indirect light. It also needs a dark period for proper growth, with about 14 hours of darkness per day for 6 weeks to promote blooming.
Soil and Watering
The soil for Kalanchoe should be well-draining. Outdoor plants do well in sandy soil, while indoor ones thrive in a cactus mix potting soil. Overwatering is a common mistake; watering should be done sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Temperature and Humidity
Kalanchoe is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures but should be protected from frost. If indoor temperatures are kept between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit, it should thrive. It doesn’t require specific humidity levels, although it prefers a dry environment.
Fertilizer
During the growing season (spring and summer), feeding the plant with a balanced fertilizer blend every few weeks can promote robust growth and vibrant blooms.
IV. Types of Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe blossfeldiana can produce flowers in an array of colors, including shades of yellow, red, orange, pink, and white. Several other Kalanchoe species, like K. manginii with its bell-like pendant flowers or K. beharensis with large velvety leaves, also make striking houseplants.
V. Pruning and Propagating
Regular pruning by pinching back the stems not only helps maintain the shape of the plant but also encourages a more robust bloom. Propagation is quite straightforward and can be achieved either through stem cuttings or offsets.
Propagating from Stem Cuttings
- Cut a 2-3 inch piece from the stem of a healthy plant.
- Allow the cutting to dry out for a few days until the cut end forms a callus.
- Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix.
- Water sparingly until the cutting establishes roots.
Propagating from Offsets
- Remove the tiny plants growing at the base of the parent plant.
- Let the offset dry for a couple of days.
- Plant it in a well-draining potting mix and water sparingly.
VI. Growing Kalanchoe from Seed
Growing Kalanchoe from seeds is another option, though it requires
a bit more patience. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare a tray or pot filled with a porous seed-starting mix.
- Scatter the seeds evenly on the surface of the mix.
- Press the seeds gently into the mix without burying them; they need light to germinate.
- Mist the surface with water, ensuring it remains damp but not waterlogged.
- Cover the tray or pot with plastic wrap or a humidity dome to maintain moisture.
- Place the tray or pot in a warm, brightly lit location, but avoid direct sunlight.
- Germination typically occurs within 2-3 weeks.
- Once the seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots or outdoors, depending on your preference.
VII. Potting and Repotting Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe, like other succulent plants, requires a particular potting approach to ensure its growth and longevity. The first thing to consider when potting Kalanchoe is the choice of pot and potting mix.
Choosing the Right Pot
The pot should be well-draining to prevent water from stagnating, as this can lead to root rot. Clay or terracotta pots are ideal due to their porous nature, which allows excess moisture to escape. It’s also important to ensure the pot has one or more drainage holes. The size of the pot should be just large enough to accommodate the root system comfortably.
Choosing the Right Potting Mix
Kalanchoe requires a well-draining potting mix to thrive. A typical succulent or cactus mix, available at most garden centers, would work well. This type of mix typically contains sand, perlite, or pumice to enhance drainage. If you prefer to make your own mix, combine equal parts of standard potting soil, coarse sand, and peat moss or perlite.
Potting Procedure
- Place some potting mix at the bottom of the pot.
- Position the Kalanchoe plant in the center of the pot.
- Fill the rest of the pot with the potting mix, ensuring the root ball is covered but the lower leaves are above the soil.
- Water the plant thoroughly and let it drain.
Repotting Kalanchoe
Over time, the Kalanchoe plant may outgrow its pot, or the soil may become depleted of nutrients. When this happens, it’s time to repot the plant.
The best time to repot Kalanchoe is in the fall, after the blooming season. Here are the steps for repotting:
- Carefully remove the Kalanchoe plant from its current pot.
- Examine the roots for any signs of disease or rot. Trim off any unhealthy looking roots.
- Follow the potting procedure mentioned above.
Repotting Kalanchoe not only provides it with fresh, nutrient-rich soil but also gives the roots more room to grow. This annual practice can help keep your Kalanchoe healthy and vibrant.
After you have potted or repotted your Kalanchoe, proper aftercare is critical. Here are some tips to ensure the success of the newly potted plant:
Watering After Potting
After potting or repotting, water the Kalanchoe thoroughly and allow it to drain. Then, allow the plant to adjust to its new pot and soil for about a week before watering again. This helps prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot, a common issue in succulents.
Positioning the Newly Potted Plant
Position your newly potted Kalanchoe in a location that receives bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch, while too little light can hinder growth and blooming. A north or east-facing windowsill is usually a good spot.
Monitoring the Plant
Monitor your plant closely for the first few weeks after potting or repotting. Look for any signs of stress or disease, such as wilting, yellowing, or dropped leaves. If the plant seems to be struggling, it may need more or less water, or it may need to be moved to a location with better light conditions.
Fertilizing After Potting
Wait about a month after potting or repotting before starting a regular fertilizing routine. Kalanchoe plants don’t require much fertilizer, but a light feeding with a balanced houseplant fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) can promote robust growth and vibrant blooms. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper dosage.
In conclusion, potting and repotting Kalanchoe requires some attention to detail, but the effort is well worth it. With the right pot, the correct soil mix, and proper aftercare, your Kalanchoe can thrive and continue to provide a vibrant display of color for years to come.
Remember, the process of potting and repotting can be a bit stressful for the plant, and some minor wilting or dropped leaves are normal. As long as you provide the right conditions and care, your Kalanchoe should recover and start to put on new growth.
However, if your plant continues to struggle or shows signs of severe stress, such as substantial leaf drop, rotting stems, or failure to put on new growth, it’s important to troubleshoot potential issues
Overwatering
Overwatering is one of the most common problems with Kalanchoe and other succulents. If the soil is staying wet for long periods, or if the plant is wilting despite regular watering, you may be overwatering. Adjust your watering schedule, allowing the soil to dry out thoroughly between waterings.
Incorrect Light Conditions
Kalanchoe needs bright but indirect light. If the plant is in direct sunlight, it may get sunburned, resulting in brown, scorched leaves. If it’s not getting enough light, it may become leggy as it stretches toward the light source. Adjust the plant’s position as needed to provide the right light conditions.
Disease or Pest Problems
If your Kalanchoe is showing signs of disease, such as rotting stems or leaves, or if you notice pests on the plant, it’s important to take action. Remove any diseased parts of the plant, and treat for pests using an appropriate insecticide or other treatment.
In sum, while potting and repotting Kalanchoe can require some effort, it’s a task that’s well worth the reward of a healthy, vibrant plant. With the right care, your Kalanchoe can continue to thrive and bloom, bringing a touch of tropical beauty to your home or garden.
The process of potting and repotting Kalanchoe is more than just a simple transfer from one container to another. It is a vital opportunity to examine the overall health of the plant and to create optimal growing conditions for its future growth and blooming.
Root Health
During the repotting process, it’s essential to inspect the roots of your Kalanchoe. Healthy roots should appear firm and white or light tan. If you notice any roots that are soft, brown, or black, these may be affected by root rot and should be trimmed away with a clean, sharp tool. If the rot is extensive, it may be challenging to save the plant.
Soil Refreshment
Over time, nutrients in the potting mix can become depleted, and the soil structure can break down, leading to poor drainage. Refreshing the soil during repotting can give your Kalanchoe a much-needed nutrient boost and improve soil aeration and drainage.
Plant Size Management
Some Kalanchoe species can become quite large if allowed to grow unchecked. Repotting provides an opportunity to manage the plant’s size. If your Kalanchoe has grown too large for its current pot but you do not wish to move it into a bigger one, you can prune the roots and the plant’s top growth to keep it a manageable size. This is best done during repotting to minimize stress on the plant.
VIII. Promoting Kalanchoe Bloom
To encourage frequent flowering, provide ample sunlight and ensure the plant receives a long period of winter darkness for energy accumulation. Deadheading spent blooms and using a phosphorus-rich fertilizer blend can also boost bud production.
IX. Common Problems with Kalanchoe
Despite its hardy nature, Kalanchoe can still experience some issues:
- Soft, damaged blooms and leaves can result from near-freezing temperatures.
- Wilting may occur due to high temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Drab or burned leaves can be caused by insufficient or excessive light exposure.
- Soft, fragile stems can be a sign of overwatering and root or stem rot.
- Failure to bloom may result from a lack of the required winter darkness period.
X. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the lifespan of a Kalanchoe plant?
A: Kalanchoe plants can live for several years with proper care, providing a consistent display of vibrant blooms.
Q: Can I grow Kalanchoe with other plants in mixed containers?
A: Yes, Kalanchoe can be grown in mixed containers, but it’s important to pair them with other plants that have similar care requirements, such as other succulents or drought-tolerant species.
Q: Where can I find more information on specific Kalanchoe species?
A: Many online resources, local horticultural societies, and garden centers can provide detailed care guides for specific Kalanchoe species.
XI. Conclusion
Growing and caring for Kalanchoe is a rewarding endeavor, thanks to its captivating and long-lasting blooms. By providing the right light conditions, avoiding overwatering, and maintaining suitable temperatures, your Kalanchoe plant can thrive beautifully.
Embrace the joy of cultivating Kalanchoe and appreciate the tropical charm it brings to your home, reveling in the beauty and simplicity of nurturing this remarkable houseplant.
