Kalanchoe Care Guide

Kalanchoe, pronounced as "kal-un-KOH-ee," hails from the arid regions of Madagascar and other parts of Africa. Its ability to thrive in challenging conditions makes it a resilient and low-maintenance choice for plant enthusiasts worldwide. It is drought-tolerant, making it perfect for the plant parent with a busy schedule. 

Caring for Kalanchoe is a breeze, even for beginners. This succulent prefers bright, indirect sunlight, making it an ideal choice for indoors, and it can successfully live outdoors in summer in places like Airdrie and Calgary, provided it is protected from hail, weather mood swings, and direct sunlight. Here are some essential care tips:

• Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
•  Use a well-draining potting mix like SoHi XP HP to prevent root rot.
• Kalanchoe thrives in temperatures between 15°C to 29°C
• Feed your Kalanchoe monthly with a diluted liquid fertilizer like Mega Mass All Purpose.
• Warmer temperatures triggers growth, while cooler temps and shorter days encourage it to bloom. 

Kalanchoe's leaves are a focal point of its charm. They are fleshy and succulent, coming in various shapes, sizes, and colors. Some popular varieties feature glossy green leaves, while others boast shades of silver, red, or vibrant purple. Their unique textures and colors make Kalanchoe an eye-catching addition to any collection of succulents.

One of the most appealing features of Kalanchoe is its striking, long-lasting blooms. Typically, these succulents produce clusters of small, tubular flowers that come in an array of vibrant shades, including red, orange, yellow, and pink. The flowers sit atop tall, sturdy stems, creating a stunning visual display that lasts for weeks. Kalanchoe's ability to bloom in winter or early spring makes it a valuable addition to any garden or indoor space.

Kalanchoe typically blooms during the winter and early spring months, making it a cherished addition to your indoor garden when the weather outside is chilly and gray. This natural blooming pattern aligns with its nicknames, such as "Christmas Kalanchoe" and "Flaming Katy," as it often graces homes with its vibrant colors during the holiday season.

To ensure your Kalanchoe blooms abundantly, consider the following factors:

1. Light Exposure: Adequate sunlight is crucial. Place your Kalanchoe in a bright, indirect sunlight location. A southern or eastern-facing window is ideal. Ensure it receives around 12 to 14 hours of darkness each day for several weeks leading up to the desired blooming period. This mimics the shorter daylight hours of winter and triggers the plant to produce flowers.

2. Temperature: Kalanchoe prefers cooler temperatures (around 60-70°F or 15-21°C) during its budding and blooming phase. Cooler nights can help stimulate the flower formation process.

3. Fertilization: Feed your Kalanchoe with a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as Mega Mass All Purpose, during the active growing season in spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing during the fall and winter when it's preparing to bloom.

4. Pruning: To encourage branching and more flower clusters, consider lightly pruning your Kalanchoe after it finishes flowering. This helps divert the plant's energy into producing more blooms.

With proper care, Kalanchoe can be a long-lasting companion in your home or garden. In optimal conditions, it can thrive for up to a decade -- or indefinitely through cuttings -- and its ability to bloom multiple times throughout the year ensures a continuous display of color and beauty.