How to grow Kalanchoe at home

1. Soil

For potted plants, it is best to mix fertile garden soil, leaf mold and river sand in a ratio of 1:2:1. The effect will be better if a small amount of bone meal is added. When the seedlings grow to 10 cm, they need to be properly pinched 1 to 2 times to promote the germination of side buds and allow them to take shape as soon as possible.

2. Lighting

During the growing season, except for midsummer, it needs shading and maintain a light transmittance of 60%. Normal light is enough in other seasons. Try not to get too much shade, otherwise it will easily cause the branches to grow too long and the plant shape to become loose.

During the growth period of Kalanchoe, the flowerpot needs to be turned frequently to adjust the light-receiving position so that it can receive light evenly and promote the plant's even growth in all directions.

3. Watering

Unlike other plants, Kalanchoe contains more water and is more drought-resistant. Therefore, do not water too much during the growing season. It is better to keep the soil in the pot dry, and wait until the soil in the pot is completely dry before watering each time. Generally, water once every 3 to 4 days. When the weather is dry, you can spray the surrounding environment to increase the humidity.

To grow Kalanchoe well, avoid keeping the pot too wet or having poor drainage, otherwise it will cause root rot.

4. Fertilization

Fertilization of Kalanchoe should be carried out during the peak growing season in spring and autumn and after flowering. Generally, applying a thin liquid fertilizer once every 15 to 20 days, or applying a long-acting slow-release fertilizer on the surface of the potting soil, can make the plant grow strong and bloom profusely. To promote more flowering, brighter flowers and longer flowering period, after the flower buds are formed, you can apply 0.2% potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution 1 to 2 times to increase the potassium content. Stop fertilizing in winter.

5. Pruning

If you want to grow Kalanchoe well, pruning is essential. During the peak growth season of Kalanchoe, it is necessary to pinch the tips of the flowers in time to promote branching and make the potted flowers grow fuller. After the flowers fade, cut off the remaining flowers in time to avoid consuming too much nutrients and affecting the quality of the next flowering.

6. Notes

Kalanchoe is a succulent plant that does not like too much water. It is best to water it before noon and make sure the leaves are dry before dark. The water is slightly acidic and the salt content cannot be too high.

Kalanchoe grows well in full sun or 60% to 70% diffuse light. However, you need to pay attention to the light intensity. Insufficient light can easily cause the plant to grow too tall, the branches to be slender, and the leaves to be thin and small. Insufficient light in late autumn will affect the differentiation of flower buds and reduce the number of flowers. Appropriate artificial lighting can be provided.

Kalanchoe likes warmth, and the suitable temperature for its growth is 20℃ to 28℃. It should not exceed 30℃ during the day and should not be lower than 18℃ at night. Too high or too low temperature will terminate its normal growth. When the temperature drops below 8℃ in winter, the leaves turn red and the flowering period is delayed.