Kalanchoe is a popular genus of succulent flowering plants known for their bright blooms and fleshy leaves. With over 125 species, these tropical plants are native to Madagascar and other regions of Africa. Many people wonder if kalanchoe can be grown outdoors. Here’s what you need to know about planting kalanchoe outside.
Kalanchoe Plant Basics
Kalanchoes are perennial flowering succulents that can grow up to 3 feet tall The most common kalanchoe species grown are
- Kalanchoe blossfeldiana – The classic florist kalanchoe with red, orange, pink, purple, or white flowers.
- Kalanchoe luciae – Flapjack or paddle plant with large, flat, rounded leaves.
- Kalanchoe tomentosa – Fuzzy, velvet-leaved panda plant.
- Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi – Lavender scallops with purple-tinged leaves.
Kalanchoes store water in their thick leaves which enables them to tolerate some drought. However, they cannot tolerate soggy soil which causes rot. Like cacti, these succulents require a sandy, well-draining potting mix.
Growing Kalanchoe Outdoors
While kalanchoe houseplants originate in tropical climates, some species can be grown outdoors in certain regions The key factors in determining if kalanchoe can grow outside are the USDA hardiness zone and provides frost protection
Suitable Climates
Kalanchoes can be planted directly in the garden in zones 10 and 11 where temperatures rarely dip below 30°F. In zones 8 and 9, kalanchoe can be grown outdoors during the warm months and brought inside for winter.
In colder climates, kalanchoe must be grown in containers and overwintered indoors. When overnight temperatures are above 50°F, potted kalanchoes can be moved outside for the summer.
Providing Winter Protection
One light freeze won’t necessarily kill kalanchoe, but temperatures below 25°F can be fatal. There are a few ways to protect outdoor kalanchoe from winter cold:
- Move potted plants to an unheated garage, porch, or greenhouse.
- Mulch in-ground plants heavily and cover with frost cloth.
- Plant kalanchoe near walls, rocks, or trees that provide insulation and wind protection.
Sheltering potted kalanchoe plants from harsh wind helps prevent freeze damage to the fleshy stems and leaves.
Growing Conditions for Outdoor Kalanchoe
When grown outside, kalanchoe plants require the following care:
- Sun: Plant in full sun to partial shade. Morning sun is ideal.
- Soil: Grow in sandy, well-draining soil. Improve drainage in clay soil with compost.
- Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering.
- Fertilizer: Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
- Pests: Check for aphids, mealybugs, spider mites. Neem oil can be used.
- Winter care: Prune leggy growth in fall. Shelter from hard frost.
Tips for Growing Kalanchoe Outdoors
Follow these simple tips for successfully growing kalanchoe outside:
- Gradually introduce new plants to increased sun exposure to avoid leaf scorch.
- Provide afternoon shade in zones 9-11 to prevent sunburn.
- Group potted plants together over winter for insulation.
- Propagate plants from leaf cuttings in summer for new plants.
- Take cuttings in late summer to overwinter plants indoors.
- Remove spent flower stems to encourage continuous blooming.
With a little preparation and protection, many kalanchoe varieties can be successfully grown outdoors for nearly year-round enjoyment of their flowers and attractive foliage. Just be ready to shelter them or bring plants inside when winter hits.
Common Questions about Outdoor Kalanchoe
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about growing kalanchoe outside:
Can I grow kalanchoe outside in pots?
Yes, container-grown kalanchoe can be kept outdoors in summer and moved inside before frost in zones 3-9. Select a pot with drainage holes using cactus mix soil.
Do kalanchoe plants need full sun?
Kalanchoes tolerate full sun in the spring and fall but do best with some afternoon shade in summer. In hot climates, partial shade is recommended.
What problems does kalanchoe have outside?
Cold damage, leaf scorch, powdery mildew, and pests like aphids, mealybugs, and mites. Check for signs of problems regularly.
When should I take my kalanchoe plants inside?
Bring potted kalanchoe plants inside well before night temperatures are forecast to dip below 45°F. Gradual temperature drops below 50°F can also damage plants.
Can kalanchoe be planted in the ground?
In zones 10 and 11, kalanchoe can be planted directly in well-drained soil in the garden. In cooler zones, grow kalanchoe in containers that can be moved indoors seasonally.
