Complete Guide to Buying Kalanchoe

Your Guide to buying the best Kalanchoe

Overview

Kalanchoe is a genus of flowering succulents that come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. This buying guide will discuss the different types of Kalanchoe, how to select the right type for your needs, and provide tips on how to care for your Kalanchoe plants. By the end of this guide, you will have the confidence and knowledge you need to successfully bring home the perfect Kalanchoe for your home or garden.

Key features

  1. Type: Kalanchoe come in many different varieties, including succulents, flowering plants, shrubs, and trees. Consider which type is best suited for your needs.
  2. Light: Kalanchoe require bright, indirect light, so choose a spot that will be able to provide the right amount of light for the plant.
  3. Water: Kalanchoe require regular watering, but should not be allowed to sit in standing water. Make sure to check the soil to ensure it is not overly wet.
  4. Soil: The right soil mix is important for Kalanchoe. Look for a potting soil mix that is well draining and contains some organic matter.
  5. Fertilizer: Fertilizing your Kalanchoe regularly will help to keep it healthy and growing. Look for a fertilizer made specifically for succulents and cacti.
  6. Pruning: Kalanchoe can become overgrown if left unchecked, so pruning is important. Prune away any dead or damaged leaves, as well as removing any excess growth.

See the most popular Kalanchoe on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Low Maintenance: Kalanchoe requires minimal care and does not need to be watered very often, making it a great choice for busy people or those who are new to gardening.
  • Easy to Grow: Kalanchoe is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of conditions, making it easy to maintain and grow.
  • Long-lasting Flowers: Kalanchoe produces flowers that can last up to 4 months, adding bright, cheerful colors to the home or garden.
  • Variety of Colors: Kalanchoe comes in a wide range of colors and varieties, making it easy to find one that suits the desired aesthetic.
  • Ease of Propagation: Kalanchoe can easily be propagated through stem cuttings, making it simple to increase the number of plants.

Cons

  • Light Requirements: Kalanchoe plants require bright light but not direct sunlight. If too much light is provided, the foliage will become pale and the plant may suffer from sunburn.
  • Temperature Requirements: Kalanchoe plants prefer mild temperatures and should not be placed in areas of the home that are too hot or cold.
  • Watering Requirements: Kalanchoe plants require regular watering; however, they are very sensitive to overwatering. Make sure the soil is allowed to dry out between waterings.
  • Pests and Diseases: Kalanchoe is susceptible to various pests, including mealybugs, scale, and spider mites. Additionally, Kalanchoe can be affected by fungal diseases, such as root rot and powdery mildew.
  • Toxicity: Kalanchoe is toxic to both humans and animals if ingested, so it should be kept away from children and pets.

Best alternatives

  1. Crassula - Also known as Jade Plant, this is a succulent that has thick, fleshy and rounded leaves.
  2. Echeveria - This is a rosette-forming succulent with thick, spoon-shaped leaves.
  3. Haworthia - This succulent has flat, fleshy leaves in a distinctive zebra-like pattern.
  4. Aeonium - Aeoniums have thick, fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves that come in a variety of colors.
  5. Sempervivum - Also known as Houseleeks, this succulent has thick, fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves.
  6. Sedum - Sedums have thick, spoon-shaped leaves that come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Potting soil - Soil specifically formulated for potted plants
  • Pots - Containers used to hold plants in soil
  • Fertilizer - Nutrients to help Kalanchoe grow and flower
  • Pruners - Used to remove dead leaves and stems
  • Mister - A spray bottle used to mist Kalanchoe with water
  • Watering can - Used to water Kalanchoe
  • Lighting - Special lights used to provide the right amount of light for Kalanchoe
  • Humidity monitor - Used to measure the humidity levels in the environment

Common questions

  1. What is Kalanchoe? - Kalanchoe is a genus of succulent plants in the family Crassulaceae. It is native to Madagascar and has over 125 species of tropical, evergreen perennials.
  2. What type of environment does Kalanchoe require? - Kalanchoe requires a warm, sunny environment with temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The soil should be well-draining and should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
  3. How much light does a Kalanchoe need? - Kalanchoe needs bright, but indirect light. A southern or western window is ideal, but avoid direct sunlight, which can cause leaf scorch.
  4. How often should I water a Kalanchoe? - Water your Kalanchoe thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch. Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings.
  5. How do I propagate a Kalanchoe? - Propagating a Kalanchoe is easy. Take a stem cutting with several leaves and let it dry out for a few days. Once the cutting has calloused over, plant the stem in a well-draining, sandy potting mix. Keep the soil moist and in bright light.
  6. Are Kalanchoe toxic to pets? - Some Kalanchoe species are toxic to pets, so it's important to check the label before purchasing to make sure it is pet-safe. If ingested, the saponins in the plant can cause gastrointestinal upset in cats and dogs.

Trivia

Kalanchoe is a plant with many unique quirks that make it stand out. For example, it is the only succulent that has the ability to produce asexually through its leaves! The leaves will form into small shoots, called plantlets, and propagate without the need for pollination. This process is known as vegetative propagation. This ability makes Kalanchoe a popular choice for gardeners who want to easily propagate their plants. Additionally, Kalanchoe is also known for its vibrant colors, and is commonly found in shades of pink, red, yellow, and white. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.