Kalanchoe - H78

Kalanchoe 🌺 (covers the common ornamental types such as Kalanchoe blossfeldiana, K. pinnata, and other decorative varieties).

🌱 Plant Overview

• Botanical name: Kalanchoe spp.

• Family: Crassulaceae (succulent family)

• Common names: Flaming Katy, Widow’s-thrill, Panda Plant (depending on species)

• Type: Succulent perennial, flowering ornamental

• Origin: Native to Madagascar and tropical Africa

• Appearance:

  • Thick, fleshy leaves (adapted for water storage).

  • Some species have smooth leaves (K. blossfeldiana), while others have hairy leaves (K. tomentosa).

  • Produces clusters of small, long-lasting flowers (red, pink, orange, yellow, or white) in winter–spring.

🪴 Soil Requirements

• Needs well-draining, sandy soil to avoid waterlogging.

• Best potting mix:

  • 2 parts succulent/cactus mix or sandy loam

  • 1 part perlite/pumice (for aeration & drainage)

  • Optional: small amount of compost for nutrients

• pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

• Pot: Shallow clay or terracotta pots with drainage holes are best.

💧 Watering & Interval

• Kalanchoe is drought-tolerant – prefers less frequent watering.

• Spring–Summer (active growth): Water once every 7–10 days (let soil dry completely before rewatering).

• Autumn–Winter (flowering/rest period): Water every 2–3 weeks.

• Avoid wetting leaves and flowers → prevents fungal issues.

• Rule: Soak and dry method – water thoroughly, then let soil dry out fully.

☀️ Sunlight Requirement

• Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight.

• Outdoors: Morning sun + partial afternoon shade.

• Indoors: Best near east or south-facing window.

• Too little light → weak growth, no flowers.

• Too much harsh direct sun → scorched leaves.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

• Ideal temperature: 15–26°C.

• Minimum tolerance: 10°C – protect from frost.

• Humidity: Prefers low to moderate humidity (40–60%).

• Too much humidity may lead to rot.

🌺 Flowering Tips

• Flowers usually appear in late winter to spring.

• To encourage blooms:

  • Provide 14 hours of darkness + 10 hours of light daily for about 6 weeks (mimics short winter days).

  • Use a balanced succulent fertilizer (once a month during growing season).

  • Deadhead spent flowers to prolong blooming.

🌱 Propagation Tips

Kalanchoe propagates easily:

1. Stem cuttings:

   • Take 8–10 cm cutting, let it callus for 1–2 days.

   • Plant in sandy soil, water lightly after a few days.

2. Leaf cuttings:

   • Some varieties root from single leaves placed on soil.

3. Offsets/Pups:

   • Many species (like K. daigremontiana) produce baby plantlets along leaf edges that can be replanted.

⚠️ Common Problems

• Overwatering → root rot (biggest issue).

• Low light → no flowers and leggy stems.

• Cold drafts → leaf drop.

• Pests: Aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects may appear.

✅ In Summary:
Kalanchoe is a hardy, low-maintenance flowering succulent perfect for indoor pots or outdoor gardens. It needs well-draining soil, infrequent watering, bright light, and occasional pruning. With proper care and light control, it rewards you with vibrant, long-lasting blooms.