Kalanchoe growing advice and tips

If you receive or buy a kalanchoe plant, it’s important to know just how to care for it. If you want to help it grow for as long as possible, there are a few basic needs that you will need to be aware of in order to give this plant the best chance to thrive.

Light

Your kalanchoe plant will need plenty of sunlight in order to bloom. You should place it in a room with plenty of bright, natural light and avoid placing it in a windowsill where the plant could be negatively affected by direct sunlight. Strong sunlight can scorch the leaves.

Soil

A kalanchoe plant will do best in well-drained soil. Make sure that you choose soil that does not retain too much water. A blend of potting soil and cactus mix will be perfect for these plants. You should also plant kalanchoes in clay pots to help prevent the soil from remaining over saturated.

Watering

As mentioned above, it’s important to avoid watering your kalanchoe too much. If you tend to forget to water your houseplants, kalanchoes are perfect because they are so forgiving. You only need to water them every few weeks and you can reduce this even further during the winter months. Make sure that the soil dries out before watering again.

Humidity and temperature

Your kalanchoe needs a somewhat specific type of environment. That said, it’s not quite as fussy as many other indoor plants. If you place it in a room where temperatures are moderate, it will do well. You also don’t need to worry about maintaining high or low humidity. As long as the plant does not get too hot or too cold, it will do very well.

Fertilizer

Your kalanchoe can certainly benefit from fertilizer provided you do so according to the needs of the plant. It’s best to add fertilizer once a month during the warmer months of the year. Make sure the fertilizer you use includes potassium to encourage blooming.

Toxicity

If you have dogs or cats, it’s important to note that your kalanchoe plant is toxic if they are ingested. Some symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting and abnormal heart rhythm. Make sure that you place your plant out of their reach.

Now that you know what your kalanchoe plant will need, you can start looking around your home for the perfect spot for this plant. These plants also make excellent gifts for friends and family. No matter the occasion, kalanchoes will always make the recipient smile.