How to Make Kalanchoe Bloom Again: Beneficial Factors and Fertilizers

Kalanchoe is a beautiful succulent that is easy to grow and maintain, making it perfect for beginners and those without a green thumb. However, like all plants, it requires some care to flourish and produce its stunning blooms. Here’s how you can help your kalanchoe thrive and bloom again.

When and How to Fertilize a Kalanchoe

After the Dormant Period:
Kalanchoe has a long flowering period, often blooming several times a year. After each blooming cycle, the plant enters a dormant period. During this time, reduce watering and allow the plant to rest. Once new growth starts to appear, usually in spring, you can begin fertilizing. Water the plant thoroughly and let the excess drain out before applying fertilizer. Ensure the top layer of soil dries out between waterings to prevent root rot.

For Potted Plants:
Potted kalanchoes require more frequent fertilization because nutrients in the potting soil deplete quickly. Use a balanced, slow-release succulent fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize once a month during the growing seasons (spring and summer).

For Plants in the Ground, Outdoors:
While outdoor kalanchoes in the ground don’t require as frequent fertilization as potted ones, feeding them with organic or homemade fertilizers occasionally can boost growth and flowering. Avoid fertilizing in winter.

What Fertilizer for Kalanchoe?

Organic and Homemade Fertilizers:
Using organic or homemade fertilizers is preferable as chemical fertilizers can easily burn succulents. Here are three easy homemade fertilizer recipes for kalanchoe:

Compost Tea:

  • Ingredients: Compost, burlap or cheesecloth bag, water, bucket.
  • Steps:
    1. Fill the bag with compost.
    2. Submerge the bag in a bucket of water and let it steep for 1-2 days.
    3. Stir the compost occasionally.
    4. After steeping, remove the bag and strain the liquid into another container.
    5. Dilute the compost tea with water and use it to water your kalanchoe.

Coffee Grounds:

  • Coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen and beneficial for many plants, including kalanchoe.
  • How to Use:
    1. Sprinkle used coffee grounds on the top layer of soil.
    2. Alternatively, mix the coffee grounds into the potting soil around the base of the plant.

Eggshells:

  • Eggshells are rich in calcium, which helps in root development and overall plant health.
  • How to Use:
    1. Crush the eggshells into small pieces.
    2. Sprinkle the crushed shells around the base of the plant or mix them into the soil.
    3. As the eggshells decompose, they will release calcium into the soil.

Additional Tips for Kalanchoe Care

Light: Kalanchoe thrives in bright, indirect light. Ensure it receives plenty of light, especially during the blooming period.

Watering: Overwatering can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. During the dormant period, reduce watering significantly.

Temperature: Kalanchoe prefers warm temperatures. Avoid exposing it to cold drafts or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Pruning: After the flowering period, prune spent blooms and any leggy growth to encourage new growth and potential future blooms.

By following these tips and providing the right care and nutrients, you can help your kalanchoe bloom beautifully and maintain its health.

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