The favoured house plant Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) is often on sale during late winter and early spring. It’s an easy-care, long-blooming houseplant that can brighten up any room. Small, four-petaled blooms are clustered atop the dark green, waxy leaves.
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About Kalanchoes
The typical lifespan of a kalanchoe plant is between two and five years. The Christmas season is a great time to find Kalanchoe at grocery stores, nurseries, and florists, where it is displayed in various festive colours, including red, pink, yellow, and white. However, all components of the kalanchoe plant are harmful to cats and dogs; therefore, pet owners should be cautious about where they store their plants.
Although some kalanchoe species are shrubs and others are annuals, perennial herbaceous plants make up most of the genus.
The thick leaves may take on a wide variety of forms and are often waxy or hairy. Typically, they develop in different directions up the stems. Each yellow, orange or red blossom is composed of four pieces. Clonal plantlets form on the roots or leaf edges of some species.
Culture And Environment Needs For Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe prefers bright, indirect light and a porous potting mix.
Plants like Kalanchoe may thrive in rooms with plenty of natural light. However, under inadequate lighting circumstances, plants become emaciated.
Overwatering may kill kalanchoe plants. Wait to water the soil too often; let it dry up somewhat between soakings. You may apply any general-purpose houseplant fertiliser once a month on your active growing plants.
The ideal range for daytime temperatures is 50–70 degrees Fahrenheit, while nighttime lows are in the 45–65 degree range. Flora benefits from cooler evening temps.
The Basics Of Kalanchoe Seed Germination
Although they may be produced from seed, this plant is often propagated by cuttings due to their sluggish growth rate.
Plant seeds in early spring on top of a light, porous potting mix; wait to cover them up. When you’re ready to start counting the ten days until germination, place the container inside a plastic bag to keep the humidity high.
Seedlings may be planted outside or into separate containers after approximately two months.
Kalanchoe Planting And Repotting
In contrast to those that do well while pot-bound, Kalanchoe plants do best when repotted periodically to promote excellent drainage.
Repotting your Kalanchoe once a year in the autumn after it has finished blooming is the greatest way to promote new growth and boost the plant’s fullness. When repotting, always use a larger container.
Use a container that allows water to drain easily; clay is an excellent option since it is porous and will keep the soil dry.
When And How To Fertilise Your Kalanchoe Plant For Blooming
Kalanchoe plants may be kept inside and bloom throughout the year with the right lighting and watering.
However, getting your kalanchoe plant into a lot of direct sunshine is the most important thing you can do to ensure it blooms regularly.
A kalanchoe plant needs six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily to produce optimal blooms.
It is crucial, however, that the plant be exposed to almost absolute darkness for the remaining hours of the day throughout the autumn and winter. For the plant to store energy for subsequent blooms, it must be in complete darkness for at least six weeks, ideally for 14 hours every day.
If you want your flowers to bloom, deadhead them when they’re done. Look for a fertiliser mix strong in phosphorus if you need help getting your plant to produce as many flowers as possible. This will encourage your plant to create more buds the next it blooms.
10 Varieties of Decorative Kalanchoes for Your Home
There are more than 35 species of kalanchoes you can have in your home, but we’ll be naming the most famous ones here.
1. Flower Dust Plant
The Flower Dust Plant is a little clumping shrub made of silvery succulents. Its elongated leaves appear “dusty” because of the white waxy hairs that coat them. Small pink blossoms grow intermittently.
2. Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana
Flowers on kalanchoe bushes are a common sight in the wintertime. However, during the winter months, when few outside plants bloom, this lovely indoor plant becomes more readily available in supermarkets and flower shops.
Flowers cluster in bright bunches above straight stalks. The plant will liven up your home with its vibrant hues. Houseplant enthusiasts need to go no farther than succulents like the Christmas kalanchoe since they are resistant to drought, require little care, and look wonderful.
3. Pendant Flowered Kalanchoe
This plant has big bell-shaped hanging blooms and thick leaves. Humid air is necessary to keep blooming for an extended period. The big, velvety leaves of this kalanchoe species are silvery green in hue and much sought for.
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4. Chandelier Plant
Chandelier plants like the Kalanchoe may be grown with little effort, so much so that their rapid spread is an integral aspect of their care.
When the orange flowers of Kalanchoe delagoensis arrive, the plant’s care and cultivation are well worth the effort they need.
The kalanchoe chandelier can withstand dry, arid climates where other plants may not survive. Succulent adaptations allow this Kalanchoe species to survive on little seasonal rainfall.
5. Calandiva
The Calandiva is a well-liked cultivar (variant) of the Kalanchoe succulent family, known for its clusters of delicate rose-like blossoms.
This plant may be “tricked” into flowering whenever its owner pleases, rather than the usual autumn bud appearance followed by late winter/early spring blooming.
The typical maturity size for a Calandiva is between 12 and 18 inches. In the spring and summer, fertilise your plant once a month.
6. Wendy
Perennial Kalanchoes are often grown as houseplants and in succulent and rock gardens. They are drought-resistant, come in a rainbow of colours, and are simple to multiply. Vegetative propagation of plants, using what are called “bulbils,” is common.
These seedlings will ultimately fall to the ground and take root. ‘Wendy’ is a hybrid that blooms in the late winter, and its panicles are filled with purple-red bell-shaped flowers with reflexed petals tipped with yellow. In terms of height, it will reach around 15 centimetres, while width would reach about 60 centimetres.
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7. Mealy Kalanchoe
When given enough care, Kalanchoe Scapigera’ Mealy Kalanchoe’ may look stunning. However, similar to other succulents, this one needs regular watering. To maintain a healthy Mealy Kalanchoe, you must pay close attention to your watering technique.
It shouldn’t be allowed to pool, and too much water should be avoided altogether. This succulent responds well to the soak-and-dry technique of watering. However, care must be taken to prevent the succulent from being overwatered.
8. Oricula
The Ornamental Kalanchoe’ Oricula’ This fragile succulent forms rosettes of grey-green leaves that are big and thick and range in shape from spatulate to round and curl backwards.
In chilly conditions, the whole leaf might take on a crimson hue, accentuating the leaf’s already prominent red border. When the leaves and stems are young, they develop a protective white powdered covering that helps them survive in the sun and other elements.
9. Red Pancakes
Flowers decorate the paddle plant’s flat, wide, spoon-shaped leaves, which are gorgeous jade green with a hint of scarlet flushing. However, this low-care succulent’s broad spatulate leaves are its key selling point.
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The paddle plant, also known as the “red pancake” or the “flapjack,” is an easy-to-care-for succulent that requires just bright indirect light and well-drained, sandy soil.
10. Milky Widow’s Thrill
Succulents of the Kalanchoe laxiflora species may be grown either inside or outdoors, provided they are protected from freezing temperatures. In any case, a Kalanchoe laxiflora is low-maintenance and requires little in the way of care.
However, understanding what specific instructions are required to maintain the succulent’s health is crucial. Keep reading to learn about a few basic considerations for caring for your Kalanchoe laxiflora.
Benefits Of Keeping Kalanchoe At Home
The usefulness of Kalanchoe is well-known among gardeners. The “tree of happiness” gets its name since it’s a gorgeous plant with enormous leaves. Insomnia, arthritis, anxiety, and depression are just some conditions this herb may alleviate.
Other benefits include a stronger immune system, a cleaner physique, and a more positive mind.
1. Helps with Dental Hygiene
Inflammation and gingivitis in the mouth may be treated with kalanchoe juice to combat periodontal disease (stomatitis II-III). It is suggested that this plant’s juice be prepared with heated water, cooled, and savoured as a refreshing iced tea.
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Three to four glasses as applications after the first treatment centres, followed by heating the juice in a bath of water at body temperature, are recommended for treating stomatitis.
2. Headache Relief
One of the best all-natural remedies for headaches is an extract from Katakataka leaves.
A heated leaf from this plant may be placed on the forehead for ten minutes to alleviate headaches. You might also massage it with the juice you get from boiling it. It will aid with pain relief either way. You can’t beat the tried-and-true effectiveness of this ancient African remedy for headaches.
3. Rhinitis Remedy
The common cold, flu, fever, indigestion, nausea, skin infections, ulcers, vomiting, and the like are just some of the conditions that it is used to treat.
Kalanchoe may be made by pulverising fresh leaves and then straining the resulting pulp to extract the juice. Then, have this juice twice a day.
4. Safeguards Female Reproductive Health.
UTIs and cervix problems may be helped by drinking this plant’s juice or tea. Curative Herb site also reports that using kalanchoe ointment on the vaginal region twice daily for 15 days helps todisinfect and prevent any germs that may be present.
5. Reduce Back Discomfort
The sore spots on the back might benefit from having hot leaves of this plant applied there. Discomfort is most often felt in the lumbar and dorsal regions of the back. To alleviate back pain, this method is a good one.
If you can get your hands on a heating pad or a hot water bag to lay on the blade while it’s on your back, that would be ideal since the increased heat would further aid in releasing the Kalanchoe’s healing powers.
Applying these heated leaves to the affected region of the back once daily until the discomfort is gone also helps with wounds, sores, or allergies in the same location.
6. Fantastic Pain Reliever
Migraine and headache sufferers often find relief with Kalanchoe. One, two, or three freshly plucked leaves from this plant may be used as a home cure by being microwaved or steamed for five minutes. Let it warm, and then quickly pour it over your head before it cools.
It should be done many times, with at least ten minutes between each attempt. Take the leaves off after a while.
7. A Treatment For Eye Styes
The leaves of the kalanchoe plant are quite effective in relieving headache pain. Dab it on top of each closed eye three to six times daily.
Alternating treatments with boric washing in the afflicted region may help diminish the redness and size of the style.
8. Maintaining A Healthy Foot Routine
For its curative effects, Kalanchoe is a much-revered plant. Fungal diseases may be treated using kalanchoe leaves, including athlete’s foot, ringworm, and others. Leaves may be warmed in hot water for approximately half an hour, then placed on the feet and left there for a couple of hours.
The next step is to put on some cosy socks, warm up two additional sheets of leaves, and lay them under your feet. Allow the herb to take effect while you rest is the plan.
9. Sunburn Sufferers Might Benefit From This Remedy
As we’ve already established, hot blades may also treat skin damaged by the sun or other sources. Form a spaghetti out of the leaves and apply it to the afflicted area.
For best results, use Kalanchoe, which provides stronger and quicker relief but must be used at least once daily for five to six days as the skin gradually returns to its normal tone or signifies a darker feel.
10. Treats Warts
Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes warts, which may be treated with Kalanchoe. If you’re experiencing pain from your warts, try applying freshly crushed leaves to the affected regions.
Do this twice a day; it’s essential. If you haven’t seen improvement after a week of therapy, keep at it or see a doctor.
11. Combating The Appearance Of Wrinkles
Experts claim Kalanchoe may remove wrinkles by rejuvenating the skin; however, scientific evidence is currently insufficient. Preparing a juice or tea of this thick herb and adding a teaspoon of honey is advised.
This solution to wash your face may help you look younger and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles. This strategy works best for at least an hour after a shower. This concoction is great for the skin since it hydrates and provides nourishment. Moreover, it aids in keeping the skin’s suppleness and flexibility in check.
12. Loosen Up Those Muscles
One benefit of the Kalanchoe plant is that it may alleviate muscular tension after strenuous activity by being rubbed over the sore spot.
The heated leaves of this vegetable may ease the aches and pains associated with the regular practice of a sport that requires significant physical preparation. Then, the gauze soaked in kalanchoe extract is applied to the sore spots or the leaves are directly put on the affected muscles.
As long as the discomfort persists, this therapy should be performed twice daily.
Ultimately, we’re all just looking for some tranquillity and peace. It may be challenging to realise this ideal in our professional or personal lives, but by using Feng Shui principles, we may do it at home.
The succulent flowers of the kalanchoe plant make them an excellent natural air filter. There is a wide variety of Kalanchoe Plant colours to pick from; choose the one that best compliments your interior design scheme. Much less water and sun exposure is required. It may help with discomfort, cough, and muscular relaxation while also cleaning the air around you.
Place a Kalanchoe in your home’s foyer (by the front door) or workplace to improve productivity, says Feng Shui.
The living room is another viable option, provided the striking crimson (or purple) hues of the Kalanchoe flowers won’t clash with the decor. Avoid two rooms at all costs: the bathroom and your bedroom. If you follow the principles of Feng Shui, you should avoid putting a Kalanchoe anywhere near your bed, even on your nightstand.
5 Things To Do to Take Care of Kalanchoe
Kalanchoes are low-maintenance plants that require little attention. Avoid drowning them by giving them too much water. In the winter, water very infrequently and only when the top few centimetres of the compost are dry. Make sure there is always a way for water to escape. In the spring and summer, once-a-month feedings are acceptable. As flowers wither, discard the dying ones.
1. Ensure Appropriate Lighting
This plant’s flowering cycle begins after it has been exposed to at least 14 hours of darkness per day for about six weeks. The plant will start blooming about four months later. If the plant receives this winter darkness, it can reset its bloom cycle and bloom nearly year-round.
Indoor kalanchoe plants require high levels of light to flower, so they should be housed in a space that receives lots of direct sunlight. But keep them out of the direct sunlight, as that will scorch the leaves and delay flowering.
2. Well Drained Soil
Outdoors and Kalanchoe plants prefer sandy soil with good drainage. If you’re growing plants indoors, use a mixture that drains excess water, such as cactus mix (50 per cent) or peat moss (60 per cent) and perlite (40 per cent). Planting your Kalanchoe in a clay pot is another option for providing enough drainage and preventing the soil from becoming too wet.
3. Maintain Sufficient Amount of Water
Choose a kalanchoe if you need to remember to water your plants occasionally. Hardy plant thrives on infrequent, deep soakings (every several weeks) (and even less often during the winter months). To avoid root rot, let the soil dry out completely between waterings. The leaves of the Kalanchoe, being succulents, can store water; therefore, the plant will be alright if you forget to water it for a few days.
4. Protection from Moisture and Cold
The Kalanchoe isn’t as fussy as some other houseplants, but it does need a certain kind of lighting and temperature range to thrive. It only needs a particularly ideal indoor climate beyond a steady temperature of between 55 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (you should still protect it from frost, however). The humidity level in the room is not critical for kalanchoe plants.
If you live in a cooler climate, you should refrain from planting Kalanchoe in your garden since the plants will perish at the first sign of a cold.
5. Gentle Dose of Fertiliser
Kalanchoe, like other blooming plants, appreciates fertiliser, but it is not as essential for them as other plants. The only real care that a garden needs is gentle feeding in the spring.
Once a month in the spring and summer, and not at all in the winter, indoor plants should be fed a balanced fertiliser mix. Substitute a high-phosphorus fertiliser if flowers are few.
Common Kalanchoe Problems
Although kalanchoe plants are very low maintenance, improper watering or exposure to severe temperatures may cause them to suffer.
1. Flowers And Leaves That Are Soft And Damaged
Plants exposed to sub-freezing conditions frequently show signs of leaf damage or delayed flowering. However, these plants do well at temperatures higher than 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Wilting
If the temperature is too hot, the leaves may wilt. Therefore, you should ideally maintain a temperature of fewer than 80 degrees Fahrenheit for these plants.
3. Leaf Discoloration Or Leaf Burn
Regardless of their intended aesthetic, all plants benefit from enough light exposure. The leaves will only be their signature glossy green if there is enough sunlight. Conversely, leaves exposed to too much sunshine may turn brown and fall off. A spot with plenty of brilliant indirect light but not too much direct sunlight is ideal for growing kalanchoes inside.
4. The Stems Are Very Fragile And Soft
Overwatering or planting in a soil media that retains water frequently causes death in Kalanchoe. Root and stem rot are common results of overwatering these plants. Stop watering the plant until it has recovered if you see this issue developing.
5. Inability To Flower
In most cases, kalanchoes fail to bloom because they are not subjected to the prolonged winter darkness required to reset their bloom cycle. These plants need six weeks of continuous darkness for at least 14 hours a day throughout the winter. When this time for renewal is skipped, plants seldom flower again.
Kalanchoes can aid in relaxation and de-stressing without you even realising it. Try keeping one in the bedroom and experience how well-rested you feel the next morning.
If you feel that Kalanchoes aren’t the right pick for you, here are a few other indoor plants you can consider.
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FAQ’s
Q1. Is Keeping Kalanchoe At Home A Wise Idea?
Ans. Easy to care for and providing both attractive foliage and colourful blooms, it is a great option for the home. Aside from their lengthy bloom duration, kalanchoe plants also contribute to healthier air quality in the home. In a nutshell, it’s a great plant!
Q2. Is There A Connection Between Kalanchoe Plants And Good Fortune?
Ans. The rosebud-shaped blossoms of the Kalanchoe Calandiva are supposed to bring good fortune and success.
Q3. Does Kalanchoe Work As An Air Purifier?
Ans. Outdoor cultivation of Kalanchoe plants, which originate in Madagascar, is possible in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 10. It has been shown that keeping a kalanchoe plant in your house or workplace may significantly improve the quality of the air you breathe. In addition, cuttings of kalanchoes root easily and fast, allowing you to expand your plant collection swiftly.
Q4. Is Oxygen Produced By Kalanchoe During Night?
Ans. The oxygen released by Kalanchoe plants at night may contribute to a more peaceful night’s sleep.
Q5. Where Should The Kalanchoe Be Placed?
Ans. Indoor kalanchoe plants need high levels of light to flower; thus, they should be housed in a space that receives plenty of direct sunlight. But keep them out of the direct sunshine since it can burn the leaves and delay flowering.
