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Kalanchoe: Your Guide to the Easy-Care Flowering Succulent
The Kalanchoe, with its vibrant blooms and plump, architectural leaves, is a popular choice for home gardeners. But between its exotic name and unique appearance, you might have some questions. Fear not, fellow plant enthusiast! This guide will answer all your burning Kalanchoe queries.
What is Kalanchoe?
Kalanchoe is a genus of flowering succulents belonging to the Crassulaceae family. These sun-loving plants come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with some boasting cascading teardrop leaves and others sporting upright, scalloped foliage. The star of the show, however, is the Kalanchoe’s clusters of brightly colored flowers, which can range from red and orange to pink, yellow, and even purple.
How to Care for Kalanchoe?
Kalanchoe’s popularity stems from its easy-going nature. Here’s the lowdown on Kalanchoe care:
- Light: Kalanchoe thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid harsh afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.
- Watering: These drought-tolerant plants despise soggy soil. Water deeply when the soil feels completely dry to the touch, then allow it to dry out again before repeating.
- Soil: Use a well-draining succulent or cactus mix to prevent root rot.
- Temperature: Kalanchoe prefers moderate temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (15°C and 29°C). Protect them from frost and cold drafts.
- Fertilizer: A light feeding every other month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength is sufficient.
How to Pronounce Kalanchoe?
This one can trip some people up! Kalanchoe is pronounced “ka-lan-KOH-wee.”
Is Kalanchoe Poisonous to Dogs?
Unfortunately, yes. Kalanchoe contains toxins that can be harmful to dogs if ingested. Keep your furry friends away from these plants.
How Often to Water Kalanchoe?
Remember, underwatering is always better than overwatering with Kalanchoe. Aim to water deeply once the soil dries out completely. During winter, you may only need to water every few weeks.
Do Kalanchoe Rebloom?
The good news is that Kalanchoe can definitely rebloom! With proper care, you can encourage your plant to flower again. We’ll delve into how to achieve this later.
Can You Plant Kalanchoe Outside?
Yes, you can plant Kalanchoe outdoors in warm climates (USDA zones 9-11). Choose a location with bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. Bring your Kalanchoe indoors before the first frost.
How Big Do Kalanchoe Get?
The mature size of your Kalanchoe depends on the specific variety. Some types, like Kalanchoe blossfeldiana (commonly called the Christmas kalanchoe), grow to a compact 12 inches (30 cm) tall, while others, like Kalanchoe thyrsiflora (jade necklaces), can reach upwards of 3 feet (1 meter) in length.
How to Make Kalanchoe Bloom in Summer?
Kalanchoe naturally flowers in response to long nights and shorter days. To encourage summer blooms, simulate these conditions by providing your plant with 14-16 hours of darkness each night for 6-8 weeks. You can achieve this by covering the plant with a dark cloth during the evening hours.
How Often Do Kalanchoe Bloom?
A healthy Kalanchoe can bloom once or twice a year, depending on the variety and care it receives.
Is Kalanchoe Poisonous to Humans?
While not deadly, Kalanchoe can cause mild stomach upset if ingested. It’s best to keep these plants out of reach of children and pets.
Can Kalanchoe Survive Winter?
Kalanchoe can survive winter indoors as long as they are kept in a warm, brightly lit location. Avoid overwatering during this time.
Do Deer Eat Kalanchoe?
The good news for gardeners is that deer tend to leave Kalanchoe alone due to their somewhat unappetizing, succulent leaves.
How Long Do Kalanchoe Plants Live?
With proper care, Kalanchoe plants can live for several years, bringing you joy with their vibrant flowers and interesting foliage.
Is Kalanchoe Safe for Cats?
Just like with dogs, Kalanchoe is toxic to cats. Keep your feline companions away from these plants.
Why Isn’t My Kalanchoe Flowering?
There are a few reasons why your Kalanchoe might not be gracing you with its blooms. Here are the top culprits:
- Insufficient Light: Kalanchoe needs ample indirect sunlight to trigger flower bud formation. If your plant is tucked away in a dimly lit corner, it won’t receive the necessary light cues to bloom.
- Lack of Nighttime Darkness: Kalanchoe are short-day plants, meaning they flower in response to longer nights and shorter days. During the winter months, this comes naturally. But if your Kalanchoe is bathed in artificial light at night (even from a nearby lamp), it might not perceive the darkness needed to initiate flowering.
- Nutrient Deficiency: While Kalanchoe aren’t heavy feeders, a lack of essential nutrients can hinder flowering. Consider feeding your plant a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength every other month during the growing season.
- Overwatering: Constantly soggy soil can stress your Kalanchoe and prevent it from putting its energy into flower production. Remember, underwatering is always preferable to overwatering with succulents.
- Immaturity: Younger Kalanchoe plants might take a year or two to mature enough to flower. Be patient and provide proper care, and your plant will eventually reward you with blooms.
Is Kalanchoe Edible?
While Kalanchoe isn’t technically poisonous to humans, it’s not considered edible either. The leaves have a somewhat bitter taste and may cause mild stomach upset if ingested. It’s best to admire these beauties with your eyes only and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
How to Propagate Kalanchoe?
The beauty of Kalanchoe is that they’re easy to propagate, allowing you to create more plants for yourself or share the joy with friends. You can propagate Kalanchoe through stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
What to Plant with Kalanchoe?
Kalanchoe’s vibrant blooms and interesting foliage make them a versatile choice for container arrangements. Here are some ideas for companion plants:
- Succulents: Echeveria, Jade Plant, Aloe Vera
- Cacti: Prickly Pear Cactus, Rebutia (Crown Cactus)
- Herbs: Rosemary, Thyme, Oregano (in separate pots to avoid herb takeover)
By following these tips and providing your Kalanchoe with the right care, you can enjoy its unique beauty and cheerful blooms for years to come. Happy planting!
