Caring for Your Tricolor Kalanchoe

The Tricolor Kalanchoe is loved for its soft green leaves edged in pink and cream. With proper light and care, its variegation becomes even more vibrant.

This succulent is low-maintenance, but giving it the right environment makes a big difference in its color and overall health.

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Light Requirements

Tricolor Kalanchoe grows best in bright, indirect light.

It can tolerate some direct sun, especially in the morning. A few hours of gentle sunlight actually help bring out its pink tones.

For best results:

• Indoors: Place near a south- or west-facing window

• Outdoors: Provide morning sun and afternoon shade

• Avoid harsh midday sun to prevent leaf burn

If the colors start to fade, the plant may need more light.

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Watering Guide

Like most succulents, this plant prefers to stay on the dry side.

Allow the soil to dry completely before watering again.

When you water:

• Soak the soil thoroughly

• Let excess water drain out

• Never let the pot sit in standing water

During winter, reduce watering significantly since the plant grows more slowly.

Overwatering is the most common cause of problems, especially root rot.

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Temperature Needs:Tricolor Kalanchoe

Tricolor Kalanchoe prefers warm temperatures between:

60°F–85°F (16°C–29°C)

It is not frost-tolerant. Temperatures below 40°F (4°C) can damage the leaves or kill the plant.

If grown outdoors, bring it inside before cold weather arrives.

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Soil and Drainage

Good drainage is essential.

Use:

• A cactus or succulent potting mix
  or

• Standard potting soil mixed with sand and perlite

The goal is to prevent water from staying around the roots.

Healthy roots mean healthy growth.

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Repotting

Repot every 2–3 years, or when roots begin to crowd the container.

Choose a pot:

• Slightly larger than the current one

• With proper drainage holes

Refresh the soil when repotting to provide fresh nutrients.

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Fertilizing:Tricolor Kalanchoe

Feed during spring and summer when the plant is actively growing.

Use:

• A balanced succulent fertilizer

• Diluted to half strength

• Once per month

Do not fertilize in fall or winter. Feeding during dormancy can cause weak growth.

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Pests and Common Issues

This plant is generally resistant to pests, but occasionally you may see:

• Mealybugs

• Aphids

If detected, treat early with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

The biggest risk is overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

To prevent disease:

• Keep leaves dry

• Ensure proper airflow

• Avoid overly humid conditions

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Pruning and Maintenance

Pruning helps maintain a compact shape.

Trim:

• Leggy stems

• Yellow or damaged leaves

• Overgrown sections

Regular pruning encourages fuller, bushier growth.

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Propagation

Tricolor Kalanchoe is easy to propagate.

You can use:

• Stem cuttings

• Leaf cuttings

Steps:

1. Cut a healthy section

2. Let it dry and form a callus for 1–2 days

3. Plant in well-draining soil

4. Water lightly

Roots usually form within a few weeks.

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Final Care Tips

For best long-term results:

• Provide bright light

• Water only when soil is fully dry

• Use well-draining soil

• Protect from frost

With proper care, your Tricolor Kalanchoe will reward you with beautiful variegated foliage year-round.

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