Kalanchoe Plant: How to Grow and Care

Plant Care

These hardy succulents grow best in bright light, dry conditions and well-draining soil. They hold water in their fleshy leaves, making them able to survive droughts. Kalanchoe will flower several times, if cared for properly, providing long-lasting bursts of color.

Light

Kalanchoe prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate some direct sun. A window that faces south or west is best. Too little lighting can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers. In super hot climates, give some afternoon shade in case of growing outdoors.

Soil

Like most succulents, kalanchoe like well-draining soil. A sandy, succulent potting mix works best.  You can also combine standard potting soil with sand, or perlite, to enhance drainage. Avoid dense, moisture-retaining soils — doing so can promote root rot.

Watering

Kalanchoe is susceptible to overwatering so a light hand is best. Water every 2-3 weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely in between. The most common problem with these plants is overwatering, which causes root rot.  In winter, when growth slows, reduce watering even further.

Pruning

Pruning helps Kalanchoe to stay neat and promotes further flowering. When flowers have faded, trim off clusters of spent flowers by cutting them at the base of the flower stem. This keeps the plant from expending its energy on seed production and spurs new growth.

For lanky plants, prune leggy stems just above a leaf node to promote bushier growth. Keep them looking good by regularly removing dead or yellowing leaves. Pruning is best done after blooming to give the plant time to recover.

Propagating

Kalanchoe is a straightforward plant to propagate, so you can make more plants from cuttings or leaves.

• Stem Cuttings: Cut a healthy stem 3 to 4 inches above the ground, remove the lower leaves, and dry the cutting for 1 to 2 days. Plant it in well-draining soil and water sparingly until roots develop.
• Leaf Cutting: Cut a leaf from the plant, let it dry for a day, then lay it on top of the soil. In a couple of weeks, little roots and new growth will come.

Plant propagation works best in spring or summer when the plant is in active growth.

Growing in Pots

Kalanchoe are perfect for growing in pots, making it a wonderful houseplant or patio addition.

• To avoid too much water on the soil, select a pot with drainage holes.
• Use a succulent mix with good drainage or improve regular potting soil with sand or perlite.
• Repot every 2-3 years to renew the soil and avoid root crowding.
• Grow in bright light, rotating the pot every so often for even growth.
• Container-grown kalanchoe gets drier faster than those planted in the ground, so check the soil more regularly before watering.

Overwintering

Kalanchoe is very sensitive to cold and it should be brought indoors when the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C). It can be left outside year-round if you live in warm climates and grow your plant outdoors. For indoor kalanchoe in winter:

• Water less than usual, as the plant goes through a period of dormancy.
• Keep it in a sunny spot, like a sunny window.
• Do not place near cold drafts or heat sources, which overly stress the plant.

Blooming

One of kalanchoe’s best features is its long-lasting, vibrant blooms. Flowers can last for several weeks, but reblooming requires specific conditions.

• Provide 12-14 hours of darkness per night for 6 weeks to initiate blooming. This mimics the plant’s natural winter dormancy.
• Aim for 60-70°F (15-21°C) for best flowering.
• Cut off spent flowers to promote new blooms.
• Reduce watering slightly during the blooming phase.

Given proper care, Kalanchoe can flower several times throughout the year, brightening up your home with its cheerful color.

Common Issues

Kalanchoe is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but a few issues may crop up:

• Overwatering & Root Rot → Use soil that drains well, and water only when dry.
• Leggy growth → Result of lack of light. Move to a brighter location.
• Pests (Mealybugs, Aphids, Spider Mites) → Wipe leaves with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol or use insecticidal soap
• No Flowers → Requires a period of darkness to promote flowering. Use a 12-14 hours of darkness rule.

Summary

Kalanchoe is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that lasts for months with little care. When grown indoors in pots or outside in warm climates, this resilient succulent gives rewarding flowers and dense foliage to its owners. Given the right conditions - good light, well-drained soil and an occasional pruning - Kalanchoe will happily flourish and brighten your surroundings for years.