April 2010
Pure Added Value By Mark Schermer

Show your customers the bright color and beauty of this low-maintenance crop that’s sure to withstand the summer heat.

It’s spring! That means we are on the highway to summer, a time to revive the garden as spring crops start to wilt and wear off. The main issues for consumers during these times are heat and drought. Which plants are able to deal with these conditions? Consumers want to know how they can keep from having to water their plants all the time while maintaining an abundantly colored garden. There is one strong and colorful plant with a solution to all of the above: kalanchoe.

The kalanchoe is not to be underestimated. It has all the characteristics of an ideal summer plant. It’s colorful, with beautiful flowers against contrasting dark leaves — and a wide range of colors is available. On top of that, it comes along with a great deal of convenience. That mix of characteristics is a virtually unbeatable combination.

In the Landscape
Kalanchoe originates from the savannas and bushlands of Madagascar, where it naturally deals with temperatures ranging from 90° F in the day to 35° F at night. So kalanchoe will adapt very well to fast changes in surroundings. It copes with heat and sun like no other plant and it needs water only once every seven to 14 days, being from the succulent family. The best spot for kalanchoe in the landscape is on tables, around the pool or along borders. It performs best in mostly sunny spots, with a little shade, but prefers to not be exposed to full sun all day. Best of all, you do not need to take out old flowers because kalanchoe is self cleaning. Where else can you find a plant with so much color for so little input?

On the Patio
Other than the landscape, kalanchoe also can be used on the patio, balcony or terrace. Customers can dress up their entire patio with small pots containing all colors of kalanchoe. Combine some stylish, concrete looking containers and fill them up with some nice colored kalanchoe. What about a full container with some stunning purple colored kalanchoes, like ‘Kerinci’ or ‘Lican’? What a great addition to everybody’s gardens. You can find a complete overview of colors to combine at www.fidesnorthamerica.com — from red to yellow, white to bicolor and bright colors to pastels. All strong, all beautiful andall convenient.

Indoors
Next to the endless possibilities kalanchoe offers to the garden, you can always inspire consumers with kalanchoe for indoor use as well. Indoors, kalanchoe has the same features and performs very well with minimal care. Your customers can enjoy it on the kitchen table, in the bathroom, in the living room or wherever they’d like.

Endless Possibilities
With customers seeking added value for their money, think about kalanchoe with its rich color range, its powerful stamina and resistance to heat and drought as well as the convenience in care. Kalanchoe can be the diva on every stage.

Get inspired by all the possibilities for this great product on www.calandiva.com and see the kalanchoe starring in various ways and interiors.

SIDEBAR: Kalanchoe as Gifts
Because kalanchoe is so convenient and easy to care for, it makes a wonderful, unique gift item. Try combining items from your home decor and gift departments, such as candles and a matching ceramic container, into an attractive gift box with kalanchoe.

Another twist on that idea: Combine kalanchoe with wellness items, such as sweetly scented soap and shampoo. When you create these combinations, you’re not just selling plants — they become great gift items for birthdays, Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day. Fantastic possibilities for unique, colorful kalanchoe to become unique, colorful gifts and selling opportunities. Fides North America is open to develop ideas like this with you.