Kalanchoe

Allow the top 1 to 2 inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings, as overwatering is the most common cause of root rot. Reduce watering frequency significantly in winter when growth slows, only providing enough moisture to prevent the leaves from shriveling. Always water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage to prevent fungal growth.

Kalanchoe thrives in bright, indirect light for 4 to 6 hours per day, which supports healthy foliage growth and abundant flowering. Direct midday sun can scorch its leaves, so provide filtered light or partial shade during the hottest parts of the day in outdoor settings. Insufficient light will lead to leggy growth and reduced flower production.

Plant kalanchoe in a well-draining, porous succulent or cactus mix with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 to prevent waterlogged conditions. You can create your own mix by combining equal parts potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand to improve drainage and aeration. Avoid heavy, moisture-retentive garden soils that hold water for extended periods.

Feed kalanchoe lightly once per month during the active growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize during the fall and winter dormant period, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flowering. Stop fertilizing entirely once flower buds begin to form, resuming only after blooms have faded.

Kalanchoe prefers average room temperatures between 60 and 85°F (15 and 29°C) for optimal growth. It can tolerate brief dips down to 40°F (4°C) but will suffer damage if exposed to freezing temperatures for extended periods. Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts, heating vents, or air conditioning units that cause sudden temperature fluctuations.

Prune faded flower stalks down to the base of the plant once blooming ends to encourage new foliage growth and future flowering. Trim back leggy, overgrown stems by up to one-third of their length in late spring to maintain a compact, bushy shape. Remove any yellow, damaged, or diseased leaves as they appear to keep the plant healthy and tidy.

Kalanchoe is most easily propagated from stem or leaf cuttings taken in spring or summer. Allow cut surfaces to callus over for 1 to 2 days before planting in moist, well-draining succulent mix, then keep the soil lightly moist until roots develop in 2 to 4 weeks. Many kalanchoe varieties also produce small plantlets along the edges of their leaves, which can be separated and potted individually.

Kalanchoe adapts well to average indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%, requiring no extra humidification in most home environments. Excessively high humidity, above 60%, can increase the risk of fungal leaf spots and root rot in home-grown kalanchoe. Avoid misting the foliage, as the plant’s thick leaves retain enough moisture on their own.

Repot kalanchoe only once every 2 to 3 years, or when it becomes root-bound and roots start growing out of the drainage holes. Choose a pot that is only 1 to 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, as an overly large pot will hold excess moisture that can cause root rot. Repot in spring after blooming has finished, using fresh succulent mix and taking care not to damage the plant’s delicate root system.