Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Care & Fertiliser Guide – Growing Flaming Katy in Australia

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana

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Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana – The Colourful, Low-Maintenance Bloomer

Known for its vivid, long-lasting clusters of flowers and thick, succulent leaves, Kalanchoe blossfeldiana — also called Flaming Katy — is one of the most popular indoor and patio plants in Australia. Loved by beginner and experienced gardeners alike, it thrives with minimal care, yet delivers bold colour when other plants fade. Kalanchoes are perfectly suited to Australian conditions if you provide the right combination of sunlight, soil, and watering. From Brisbane’s subtropical balconies to Sydney’s temperate courtyards, this plant adapts well — making it a staple for year-round greenery and seasonal blooms.

Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana Growing Conditions

Sunlight: Prefers bright, indirect light indoors and light morning sun outdoors. Too much harsh midday sun can scorch leaves, while too little light reduces flowering.
Soil: A free-draining succulent mix is essential. Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage and prevent root rot.
Climate: Ideal in warm to mild climates. Protect from frost; move indoors during cold snaps below 10°C.

Choose healthy plants with strong foliage and visible buds if buying in bloom. Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is also drought-tolerant, making it perfect for busy households or low-maintenance garden designs.

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Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana Fertiliser – What to Use & When to Feed

Although resilient, Kalanchoe blossfeldiana produces its most vibrant blooms and lush leaves when regularly fed. A balanced NPK fertiliser encourages healthy foliage while promoting abundant flowering cycles.

Best Fertiliser for Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana

Potted Plants: Use a liquid fertiliser like NPK 20-20-20 every 3–4 weeks during active growth. Apply at half strength to avoid fertiliser burn on succulent leaves.
Garden Beds: Apply a slow-release fertiliser formulated for flowering plants at the start of spring and again in midsummer. Water in well.

When Should You Fertilise Kalanchoe in Australia?

Spring (Sept–Nov): Start feeding when new leaves form and buds appear.
Summer (Dec–Feb): Continue regular feeding during the main flowering season.
Autumn (Mar–May): Feed once to strengthen the plant before winter dormancy.
Winter (Jun–Aug): Reduce or stop feeding when growth slows, resuming as days lengthen.

For the best results, use Complete Grow’s Cactus & Succulent Plant Food Fertiliser Concentrate — a premium liquid blend designed for water-efficient plants, ensuring healthy blooms and strong, disease-resistant foliage.

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Seasonal Care Tips & Common Kalanchoe Problems

While Kalanchoe blossfeldiana is hardy, a few targeted care practices will keep it thriving for years.

Pruning: Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent energy loss.
Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering is the leading cause of root rot.
Pest Control: Watch for mealybugs and aphids. Treat early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Repotting: Refresh soil every 2–3 years to maintain nutrient levels and drainage.

FAQ – Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana

Q: Is Kalanchoe blossfeldiana a succulent?
Yes. It stores water in its thick leaves, making it drought-tolerant and low maintenance.

Q: How long does it flower?
Blooms typically last 6–8 weeks, with peak flowering in late winter to early summer.

Q: Can I propagate it from leaves?
Propagation is best from stem cuttings, although leaf propagation is possible with patience.

Q: Is it poisonous to pets?
Yes, Kalanchoe species can be toxic to cats and dogs if ingested. Keep out of reach of pets.

Final Tip: For the healthiest growth and best blooms, feed every 3–4 weeks with Complete Grow’s Cactus & Succulent Plant Food Fertiliser Concentrate, following label directions.