Kalanchoe Care Guide

Kalanchoe, pronounced as "kal-un-KOH-ee," (although we often hear or say "ka-lench-oh" oh) 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. In other words, it evolved in a place where rain is optional and survival skills are mandatory, which makes it absolutely perfect for the busy plant parent!

Kalanchoe is built to handle neglect! It stores water in its thick leaves, tolerates missed watering schedules, and generally refuses to die just because someone forgot about it for a week or two. For busy parents, sleepy plant owners, or people who occasionally wander off to the mountains for a weekend, it’s one of the more forgiving houseplants you can keep around. 

I’ve also personally had great success growing them in pots outdoors during the summer. In places like Calgary and Airdrie, they do surprisingly well on patios or balconies as long as they’re protected from sudden hailstorms or cold snaps. When bringing them back indoors for the winter, it’s always wise to isolate them from other plants for a little while, just in case any outdoor hitchhikers came along for the ride.

And one small tip: even if your Kalanchoe has been growing happily under indoor lights, introduce it to direct sunlight gradually. Sudden full sun can scorch the leaves (oops), so a gentle transition helps keep the plant looking its best.

Here are some simple care guidelines:

• Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

• Use a well-draining potting mix, such as SoHi XP HP mixed with GrowPharm Cactus & Succulent mix, to help prevent root rot.

• Kalanchoe thrives in temperatures between 15°C and 29°C.

• Feed monthly during the growing season with a diluted liquid fertilizer such as Mega Mass All Purpose.

• Warmer temperatures encourage leafy growth, while cooler temperatures and shorter days encourage flowering.
  

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 winter and early spring, making it a cherished addition to your indoor garden when the weather outside is chilly and grey. This is why it has picked up so many cheerful nicknames like “Christmas Kalanchoe” and “Flaming Katy.”

It’s a bit like a poinsettia, except it doesn’t dramatically collapse the moment the holiday season ends.

Instead, Kalanchoe keeps going. The flowers can last for weeks, and the plant itself can live for years with simple care. That makes it a perfect gift for people who love receiving plants, but would prefer their holiday gifts to just like not quietly drop dead once the decorations come down.

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.