Kalanchoe 6"

The Kalanchoe is a versatile, low-maintenance succulent known for its vibrant, long-lasting blooms and fleshy leaves. Native to Madagascar, it thrives both as a houseplant and in outdoor gardens (in warmer climates). 

Light Requirements

• Best Light: Kalanchoe prefers bright, indirect light to full sun. Indoors, place it near a sunny window (east or south-facing is ideal).
• Outdoor Placement: In outdoor gardens, ensure it gets 4-6 hours of morning sunlight, with some afternoon shade to protect it from intense heat.

Watering

• Frequency: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Water deeply but infrequently, as Kalanchoe is drought-tolerant.
• How to Water: Use the soak-and-dry method. Water the soil thoroughly until water drains out of the bottom, then let the soil dry completely before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering is the leading cause of root rot. Ensure the pot has drainage holes.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Kalanchoe thrives in temperatures between 60-85°F. It is not frost-tolerant, so bring it indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F.
• Humidity: It prefers average household humidity and doesn’t require additional humidity. Avoid overly humid environments, as this can lead to fungal issues.

Soil Requirements

• Type of Soil: Use a well-draining succulent or cactus mix. If using regular potting soil, mix in perlite or sand to improve drainage.
• pH Level: Slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0) is ideal.

Fertilization

• Frequency: Fertilize during the growing and blooming season (spring and summer) every 4-6 weeks.
• Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength or a fertilizer specifically for succulents.
• Avoid Over-Fertilizing: Do not fertilize in the fall or winter when the plant is dormant.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Pruning: After the blooming period, prune back spent flowers and leggy growth to encourage new growth.
• Deadheading: Remove faded flowers promptly to redirect energy toward healthy growth and encourage additional blooms.

Repotting

• Frequency: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time to repot.
• Pot Selection: Choose a pot with drainage holes that is 1-2 inches larger than the current one.

Propagation

Kalanchoe is easy to propagate through stem cuttings, leaf cuttings, or offsets.

1. Stem Cuttings:
   • Cut a healthy stem just below a node.
   • Let the cutting dry for 1-2 days to form a callus.
   • Plant it in well-draining soil and water sparingly until roots form.
2. Offsets:
   • Gently separate baby plants (pups) from the mother plant and replant them in their own pots.
3. Leaf Cuttings:
   • Detach a healthy leaf, let it callus over, and lay it on top of moist soil. Roots and a new plant will eventually grow.

Blooming

• Encouraging Flowers: Kalanchoe is a short-day plant, meaning it needs 14-16 hours of darkness daily for about 6 weeks to stimulate flowering.
• Cycle: After blooming, the plant may enter a dormant phase. During this time, reduce watering and provide indirect light until new growth starts.

Pest and Disease Management

• Common Pests: Watch for aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations.
• Diseases:
  • Root Rot: Caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil.
  • Powdery Mildew: Can occur in high humidity. Ensure good airflow around the plant.
  • Leaf Spot: Fungal spots on leaves may appear if water sits on the foliage for too long.
• Prevention: Water at the base of the plant, avoid overcrowding, and maintain proper airflow.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Care

• Indoors: Provide bright light, such as near a sunny window, and maintain consistent temperatures.
• Outdoors: Plant in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade. Bring indoors when temperatures drop.

Toxicity

• Kalanchoe is toxic to pets (cats and dogs) if ingested. Keep it out of reach of pets and children.