Kalanchoe is a genus of succulent plants of the Crassulaceae family. Usually found in Australia, Madagascar, and tropical regions of South Africa.
This genus contains more than 200 different species, and it is also represented by subshrubs, succulents, and herbaceous perennials. The foliage of each species differs. The leaves are typically thick, sessile, or have petioles and can be lightly or strongly dissected. During flowering, an umbrella of blooms of white, purple, red, or yellow color forms. Almost all forms of this plant grow well at home, assuming the grower follows the plant care guidelines.
As the topsoil dries, watering should be ample but not frequent. Water more often during flowering and while kept in the sun; less frequently in the winter and at colder temperatures. Remember that this plant is succulent, so it does not mind some neglect.
Kalanchoe is a sun-loving plant. During the flowering season, the plant needs more light than usual. Kalanchoe should not be placed on the northern window sill. In the summer, you may take it out on the balcony, but it's best to keep it out of the direct sun during the midday hours.
You may use a ready-made soil combination designed for cactus and succulent plants to grow a Kalanchoe. A leafy and soddy soil, sand, and peat (2:4:1:1) substrate is also perfect.
In the spring and summer, feed Kalanchoe once every two weeks, alternating mineral and organic fertilizers, or cactus and succulent fertilizers. Fertilizer can also be added during flowering, but no more than once a month.
Kalanchoe can be propagated vegetatively (the material is at the ends of the leaves), seeds and cuttings.Baby flowers, falling on the surface of the soil, take root themselves; they can also be planted. Seeds are sown in February-March in a light substrate, a mixture of peat with deciduous soil.
In winter, the optimal temperature range is 57-65°F (14-18°C), and in summer, it is 65-82°F (18-28°C). Make sure that in the room where the flower is located, the temperature is not less than 50°F (10°C).
Because Kalanchoe is sensitive to moisture stagnation, both a plastic and a ceramic container with slight protrusions at the bottom are ideal. Drainage should be installed in a pot. It should contain as little free space as possible.
