Kalanchoe Care

Kalanchoë is one of the most beloved houseplants for the home – and for good reason. This cheerful plant with its colorful flowers and glossy, fleshy leaves is a real mood setter in any interior. Moreover, the Kalanchoë is a hardy and low-maintenance plant species, making it ideal for both novice and experienced plant lovers. In this blog, you will read everything about the care of the Kalanchoe, so that you can enjoy this beautiful succulent.

Watering the Kalanchoe

The Kalanchoe is naturally a succulent and therefore needs little water. This means that it is better to give it slightly too little water than too much. In the summer, the potting soil may feel slightly moist, but always let the top layer dry out before watering again. In winter, once a week is often sufficient – ​​sometimes even less. Too much water can lead to root rot, so ensure the pot has drainage holes and always pour away excess water.

Potting Kalanchoe

Potting is not necessary for the Kalanchoe. Because it is a succulent, it stores water in its leaves and does not need extra humidity. In fact, wetting the leaves can cause mold to form. So just leave the leaves alone and focus on a good watering rhythm via the potting soil.

Kalanchoë Location

A good location is essential for a healthy Kalanchoe. The plant loves plenty of light and does excellently on a sunny windowsill. The more light it receives, the longer and more abundant the flowering. However, avoid bright midday sun directly behind glass in the summer, as this can cause leaf burn. A spot with plenty of daylight, such as an east- or west-facing window, is usually ideal.

Kalanchoë Outdoors

During the summer months, the Kalanchoë can also be placed outdoors. However, do place it in a sheltered spot with sufficient light, but out of the full afternoon sun and rain. A balcony, terrace, or veranda is perfect. As soon as the temperature drops below 10°C in the autumn, bring the plant back inside. The Kalanchoe is not a year-round outdoor plant.

Kalanchoë Winter Hardy

The Kalanchoe is not winter hardy. This means that it cannot withstand frost and absolutely must be brought indoors as soon as it gets colder. Outdoors, the plant dies quickly if the temperature drops below 10 °C. That is why the Kalanchoe is primarily kept as a houseplant. Do you still want to place it outside temporarily? Then ensure protection against cold, drafts, and rain – and bring it back inside in time.

Repotting Kalanchoe

The Kalanchoe is a slow-growing succulent, meaning repotting is not often necessary. However, there comes a time when your plant literally outgrows its pot. For example, if you see the roots coming out of the bottom of the pot, the plant becomes top-heavy, or the potting soil dries out quickly. Then it is time to give your Kalanchoe a new home. A slightly larger pot and fresh soil provide new growing space and a healthy foundation. When should you repot a Kalanchoe? When the roots are visible at the bottom or top When the plant becomes unbalanced or starts to droop If the water drains too quickly or the soil retains water poorly After purchase, if the plant is in a nursery pot that is too small Ideally in the spring – during the start of the growing season

What do you need?

• A new flowerpot with drainage holes (approximately 10–20% larger than the old pot)
• Potting soil for succulents or cacti (airy and well-draining)
• A layer of hydro granules or pot shards for the bottom of the pot
• A spoon, trowel, or your hands
• Optionally garden gloves

Step-by-step plan: Repotting Kalanchoe

1. Preparation
   Get everything ready: new pot, fresh soil, and optionally hydro granules. Make sure the new pot is thoroughly clean.

2. Removing from the old pot
   Carefully remove the Kalanchoe from the old pot. Hold the base of the plant firmly and pull gently. Is it difficult to remove? Gently squeeze the sides of the pot or turn it upside down.

3. Remove old soil
   Carefully remove a portion of the old potting soil around the roots. Leave the roots as intact as possible.

4. Prepare new pot
   Place a layer of hydro granules or pot shards at the bottom of the pot for good drainage. Then fill the pot with a layer of potting soil.

5. Placing Kalanchoe
   Place the plant in the center of the new pot. Fill around with fresh potting soil and press down lightly so that the plant stands firmly.

6. Water (in moderation)
   Give a little water, but not too much – the roots need to get used to the new soil. Allow the soil to dry out thoroughly afterwards before watering again.

7. Let it recover for a while
   Do not place the plant directly in full sun for the first few days. Let it acclimatize slowly in a light, sheltered spot.

Kalanchoe Repotting Tip:

Preferably repot every 2 to 3 years to refresh the soil and give the roots sufficient space. Even if your Kalanchoe still fits perfectly in its pot, fresh soil can stimulate health and flowering.

Kalanchoë Cuttings

Do you want to propagate your Kalanchoe? That is very simple! This plant is excellent for propagation via leaf or stem cuttings. Cut off a healthy piece of the plant and let the cutting dry for a few days so that the cut surface can dry out. This prevents rot as soon as you put it in the ground. Next, use dry, airy potting soil, preferably cactus or succulent soil, and water sparingly at first. Place the cutting in a bright spot, but not in direct sunlight. After a few weeks, roots will form and a new plant will grow from it.

Do you want to know exactly how to do this step by step? Then read our extensive blog: Kalanchoe Cuttings.

Kalanchoe Pruning

Why prune a Kalanchoe?

• For a neater, more compact plant shape
• To stimulate new flower formation
• To remove diseased or yellowed parts
• To shorten stems that are too long or leggy

When do you prune the Kalanchoe?

• After flowering: cut away the spent flower stalks
• During growth: when the plant grows too tall or crooked
• All year round: for removing damaged or yellow leaves

Step-by-step plan: Pruning Kalanchoe

1. Use clean tools
   Always ensure you have sharp and clean pruning shears or a small knife to prevent infections.

2. Remove spent flowers
   Cut off the flower stalks just above the first pair of leaves as soon as the flowers have wilted. This prevents the plant from wasting energy on old bloom.

3. Top off long stems
   Has the plant grown out of proportion? Trim long stems back slightly to maintain a fuller shape. This also helps in the formation of new side shoots.

4. Remove ugly leaves
   You can safely remove yellow, limp, or damaged leaves. The plant prefers to use its energy for healthy parts.

5. Give the plant a rest
   After pruning, it is good to give the plant some rest. Place it in a light spot and water sparingly so that it can recover.

Pruning Kalanchoe Extra tip :

Pruning waste from healthy parts can optionally be used for cuttings. That's killing two birds with one stone!

Kalanchoe Toxic

The sap of the Kalanchoe is slightly toxic. The plant can be harmful if ingested, especially for pets such as cats and dogs. The leaves and sap contain substances that can cause gastrointestinal issues in animals. Therefore, ensure that the plant is kept out of reach of curious four-legged friends. The plant is generally harmless to humans, but contact with the sap can cause mild irritation in sensitive skin.

Kalanchoë Grey Leaf

Do you notice that your Kalanchoe is developing a grayish haze on its leaves? This is usually a sign of fungal growth, such as mildew. This often occurs in an environment where it is too humid or where air circulation is limited. Fortunately, this problem is easy to remedy if you catch it in time.

Possible causes of gray leaves:

• High humidity combined with poor ventilation
• Water remaining on the leaves
• Potting soil that is too wet or poorly draining
• Too much shade or a location that is too dark

What can you do about gray leaves on Kalanchoe?

• Move the plant to a more airy, lighter spot
• Allow the soil to dry out well and water less
• Remove affected leaves to prevent further spread
• Use a mild organic pesticide in case of persistent mold
• Ensure a pot with good drainage to avoid moisture buildup

Do you continue to experience this problem? Then it may be wise to repot the plant with fresh, airy soil. A healthy, dry environment is the best remedy and prevention against gray leaves on your Kalanchoe.

Can a Kalanchoe bloom again?

Yes, a Kalanchoe can certainly bloom again, although it requires a little more attention. After flowering is over, cut away the spent flowers and give the plant sufficient light and rest. The plant needs a resting period to produce new flower buds. Some people temporarily place the plant in a dark spot for a few weeks (short-day treatment) to stimulate flowering. With a little patience and the right care, you can therefore enjoy renewed bloom year after year.

The Kalanchoe is not only a beautiful, colorful addition to your interior, but also a plant that asks little and gives much. With the right care, your Kalanchoe will remain healthy and blooming for a long time. Whether you have one plant or combine several varieties, this hardy succulent brings atmosphere, color, and a touch of tropical charm into your home.