Easy to Grow Seasonal Bloomer: Kalanchoe
Tara A. Spears
I’ve always been a fan of succulents and the strong blooming Kalanchoe is my favorite of all. The deep green, scalloped leaves of the Kalanchoe are just as attractive as the flowers. The sculpted foliage persists after bloom and provides for a handsome plant. The miniature four- petaled flowers are long lasting and bloom for months. I usually purchase mine in early November and the Kalanchoe will still be blooming in April! Maybe we should re-name them ‘snowbird’.
Kalanchoe is a durable flowering plant requiring very little maintenance whether potted indoors or outside. This plant grows well outside in coastal Mexico year round. Kalanchoe care is minimal but be cautious about light levels. The strong direct southern light can burn the tips of the leaves so choose a spot in partial sun to light shade areas when planting.
Although Kalanchoe is native to Madagascar and was introduced in 1932 by Robert Blossfeld, a German hybridizer, it is a common indoor houseplant throughout the world. In the sub-tropic climate Kalanchoe can be a perennial outdoor planting.
Kalanchoe grows best in full sun and a well-drained potting media. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering. Fertilize actively growing plants with any houseplant fertilizer once a month. The ideal temperatures for Kalanchoes are 45-65 °F (7- 18 C) at night and 50-70 °F (10-21 C) during the day. Cool night temperatures prolong flower life.
Kalanchoes, like poinsettias, require short day lengths (long nights) for flower bud development. Natural day lengths between October 1 and March 1 allow flower buds to form.
Unfortunately, since 2017 temperatures are well above average, my existing kalanchoes have “heat delay” inhibited
flower development and no flowers started. After the flower buds are large enough to be seen above the foliage, day length is no longer crucial. At this time you can place plants in any location regardless of night lighting.
Kalanchoes rarely get plant diseases. However, too much or too little water issues and insects are the main problems. Root rot usually results from a soil mix that does not drain quickly or from overly frequent watering. Don’t let them sit in water. Another problem that can affect kalanchoes in this super humid climate is powdery mildew. To prevent powdery mildew allow for plenty of air flow around plant material by keeping 12 inches (30 cm) space from each kalanchoe plant.
Although I have not had any insect problems with my Kalanchoes, mealybugs, aphids and brown scale are the most common insect 
.
If you see any signs of insect infestation, isolate the plant until the insects are gone. You can control mealybugs by wiping them off with alcohol on a cotton swab. Brown scale can be removed by scraping them off and Aphids can be removed by hand wiping both sides of the leaves with a water and dish soap solution.
If you want a pop of vivid color and lush green that requires little care, Kalanchoe is a perfect seasonal plant. They thrive in small spaces and cope with the dry season quite well. These plants are very inexpensive at the local market and plant nurseries. Pick one up to brighten your patio table or an inside room.