The scarlet flowers of the Kalanchoe are very appropriate for Valentine's Day. Plants with salmon or pink colored flowers also are available. This succulent plant has thick, waxy leaves and flowers in flat headed clusters. Compact growing forms are the most popular type on the market today. If you have received a Kalanchoe for Valentine's Day, or already had a plant you will be happy to hear that they are easy to care for and maintain.

Kalanchoe plants should be kept in bright light or full sunshine. They exist very well in homes during the winter. Normal home temperature and low to medium humidity are sufficient. Since it is a succulent type plant, the soil must be allowed to dry a couple of days between thorough waterings.

When flowers fade in the Spring, the blossoms and their stems should be removed. A slight amount of pruning may be necessary to shape the plant. It will actively grow throughout the summer and fall. If you wish to have the plant flower again, for Christmas or Valentines Day, the Kalanchoe must have a six week period of short days.

For Christmas blooming, this short day period (no light from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m.) should start on September 1^st . During this period, watering should be reduced and night temperatures should be kept as close to 55 degrees F. as possible. A cool closet would work very well for keeping the plant overnight.

This page was last updated April 2003

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