Kalanchoe is a popular succulent known for its vibrant clusters of flowers, thick fleshy leaves, and easy-care nature. To encourage healthy growth and abundant blooms, kalanchoe benefits from a fertilizer that supports both green, succulent foliage and repeated flowering.

The best fertilizers for kalanchoe provide balanced nutrition with a slightly higher phosphorus content to support blooms, while also delivering enough nitrogen to maintain healthy leaves. A controlled‑release or dilute liquid fertilizer helps avoid overfeeding and succulent burn.

In this guide, we review the 10 best fertilizers for kalanchoe, considering NPK ratio, release type, ease of use, and suitability for succulents. Use this list to find the right feed for your kalanchoe to stay lush and flowering.

10 Best Fertilizers For Kalanchoe

1. Miracle‑Gro Succulent Plant Food

A water-soluble formula made specifically for succulents and cacti. It has a balanced NPK ratio that supports leaf development without encouraging leggy growth.

Dilute the fertilizer in water and apply every two weeks during the growing season. Use light feedings to avoid burning delicate succulent tissues.

This product is ideal for regular feeding of potted kalanchoe to encourage steady growth and healthy leaves.

2. Schultz Cactus Plus 2-7-7 Liquid Plant Food

This liquid fertilizer has a lower nitrogen content and a relatively higher phosphorus level, which encourages flowering in succulents like kalanchoe.

Mix per label instructions and apply during active growth (spring through fall). Use a weaker concentration when plants are young or in small pots.

It’s especially good when you want to boost bloom production without forcing excessive foliage growth.

3. Espoma Organic Cactus & Succulent Plant Food

An organic fertilizer specially formulated for succulents, with a gentle NPK ratio and beneficial microbes. Great for kalanchoe grown in organic soil mixes.

Apply twice per year at the beginning of the growing season or mix lightly into potting soil. Water in well after application.

It supports soil health and provides slow, gentle nutrition ideal for succulents’ slow-growing nature.

4. Bonide Cactus, Palm & Citrus Plant Food (8-16-24)

This formula offers a high phosphorus and potassium content, which helps flowering and strengthens succulent stems. The NPK ratio supports bloom production without excessive leaf growth.

Dissolve in water and feed kalanchoe every 3–4 weeks during the growing season. Avoid applying in very hot or cold weather.

This fertilizer is ideal for kalanchoe that you want to encourage to bloom prolifically.

5. Osmocote Smart‑Release for Indoor & Outdoor Plants

Osmocote controlled-release pellets deliver nutrients over several months, making them convenient for succulents like kalanchoe kept in pots.

Sprinkle the recommended dose over the potting mix surface and gently water in. The pellets will gradually release based on soil temperature.

This ensures your kalanchoe gets steady nutrition without frequent feeding.

6. Jobe’s Houseplant Fertilizer Spikes

These slow-release fertilizer spikes are easy to use and reduce the risk of over-fertilization in potted kalanchoe.

Insert a spike into the soil near the root zone and water afterward to activate. Replace spikes as directed, usually every few months.

They provide low, consistent nutrient release — perfect for busy growers or indoor kalanchoe.

7. General Hydroponics FloraBloom (Part of the Flora Series)

FloraBloom is part of a 3‑part hydroponic nutrient system, rich in phosphorus and potassium to support flowering. It’s ideal for kalanchoe grown in soil or hydro setups.

Use in the bloom phase by mixing with other Flora nutrients in the correct ratio. Apply during the flowering stage of kalanchoe.

This feed gives a strong bloom boost and helps kalanchoe produce more vibrant and lasting flowers.

8. FoxFarm Tiger Bloom (7-30-20)

Tiger Bloom has a very high phosphorus ratio, which is excellent for boosting flower production in kalanchoe. It also contains key micronutrients.

Dissolve per instructions and feed every 7–10 days while flowering. Use lower strength for smaller or young plants.

It’s a powerful bloom‑stimulating fertilizer for gardeners wanting large, abundant kalanchoe flowers.

9. EarthPods Cactus & Succulent Fertilizer Pods

Pre-measured fertilizer pods make feeding kalanchoe easy and low-mess. They contain balanced nutrients suitable for slow-growing succulents.

Insert pods into the potting medium, following package directions, and water. The nutrients dissolve gradually.

This is a great no‑fuss option for regular but gentle feeding.

10. Dr. Earth Exotic Blend (for flowering succulents)

This organic fertilizer blend includes high-phosphorus ingredients and beneficial microbes designed for flowering succulents and tropical plants.

Apply lightly to the soil surface and water in at the start of the growing season and again mid-season if needed.

It provides a natural way to boost flower production and maintain soil health.

7 Buyer’s Tips for Choosing Fertilizer for Kalanchoe

• Use a bloom‑focused formula: Choose fertilizer with higher phosphorus (middle number) to support flowering.
• Prefer slow-release or dilute liquid: Succulents don’t need heavy, frequent feedings.
• Choose gentle N‑levels: Avoid overly high nitrogen to prevent leggy, weak stems.
• Consider organic options: They help build soil health and reduce risk of salt buildup.
• Time your feeding: Fertilize mostly in spring and early summer when kalanchoe is actively growing.
• Avoid feeding in dormancy: Cut back or stop fertilizer when plants are resting or not blooming.
• Use correct dilution: Always follow label instructions for succulents to avoid root burn.

7 Frequently Asked Questions

1. How often should I fertilize kalanchoe?

Feed kalanchoe about every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer if using a gentle liquid fertilizer. If using a controlled-release product, apply at the beginning of the season.

2. Can I use a regular houseplant fertilizer on kalanchoe?

You can, but it’s better to use one formulated for succulents, with lower nitrogen and a bloom‑supporting phosphorus ratio, to avoid overly soft growth.

3. Should I fertilize kalanchoe when it’s not blooming?

Only lightly. When not blooming, plants use less energy for flower production, so reduce the feeding to half strength or skip until active growth returns.

4. Is it safe to use fertilizer spikes in small succulent pots?

Yes — but use only a small, slow‑release spike, and place it away from the stem so salts don’t build up too close to the plant.

5. Can over‑fertilization harm kalanchoe?

Yes. Too much fertilizer can burn roots, cause weak stems, or lead to leaf drop. Always dilute as recommended or use controlled-release formulas.

6. What’s the best time to fertilize kalanchoe?

The best time is in the growing season — spring through early summer — when new growth and bloom formation happen. Reduce or stop feeding during dormancy.

7. Can I make my own succulent fertilizer mix for kalanchoe?

Yes. You can mix a mild, balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10‑10‑10) at quarter strength, or add bone meal for more phosphorus. Always use diluted strength.

Conclusion

Fertilizing kalanchoe correctly can dramatically improve its blooms and keep its fleshy foliage healthy. Choose fertilizers designed for succulents, especially ones with higher phosphorus for flower support.

Slow-release or dilute liquid formulas help prevent overfeeding and salt buildup, and organic options support long‑term soil health. Feed during active growth and scale back during rest periods.

With the right feeding regimen, your kalanchoe will reward you with lush foliage and vibrant — long-lasting — flower clusters.