How to Plant a Kalanchoe in a Pot

If you're looking for an easy-to-care-for plant that will provide year-round color, the kalanchoe is an excellent choice. This succulent has bright, cheerful flowers that come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, yellow, and white. In this article, we'll give you step-by-step instructions for planting a kalanchoe in a pot.

Choose the Right Pot

The first step in planting a kalanchoe in a pot is to choose the right container. Kalanchoes do well in containers that are a little bit snug, so go for one that's just a little bit larger than the plant's root ball. Make sure the pot has good drainage, as kalanchoes don't like to have their feet wet.

Prepare the Soil

Kalanchoes prefer well-draining soil that's slightly acidic. You can use a commercial potting mix or create your own by combining equal parts of sand, peat moss, and perlite. Some gardeners also like to add a bit of bone meal to the soil mixture to promote healthy root growth.

Plant the Kalanchoe

Once you have your pot and soil ready, it's time to plant your kalanchoe. Start by filling the pot about one-third full with soil. Then, remove the kalanchoe from its nursery pot and gently loosen any tangled or circling roots. Place the kalanchoe in the pot, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Fill in the space around the root ball with soil, pressing gently to eliminate any air pockets.

Water the Plant

After you've planted the kalanchoe, give it a good watering to settle the soil and help the plant establish itself. Water the kalanchoe until you see water draining from the bottom of the pot, then allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Be careful not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.

Provide Adequate Light

Kalanchoes prefer bright, indirect light. Place your potted kalanchoe in a spot that gets plenty of light, but isn't in direct sunlight. If you notice that the leaves are turning yellow, it may be getting too much light.

Fertilize Occasionally

Kalanchoes don't need a lot of fertilizer, but a little bit of food can help promote healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month, or every three months if using a slow-release fertilizer. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.

Conclusion

With these simple steps, you can enjoy the beauty of a kalanchoe in your home or garden. Remember to choose a pot with good drainage, use well-draining soil, water the plant properly, provide plenty of light, and fertilize occasionally. With a little bit of care, your kalanchoe will reward you with colorful flowers year after year.