Kalanchoe Propagation

Kalanchoë is a popular houseplant known for its colorful flowers and sturdy leaves. It is not only a beautiful plant to have, but also to propagate. Kalanchoe cuttings are an easy way to create new plants, and with the right care, you can soon enjoy more of these beautiful succulents. In this blog, we answer the most frequently asked questions about propagating Kalanchoe, from the right time to take cuttings to caring for your new plants.

When to Take Kalanchoe Cuttings?

The ideal time to propagate your Kalanchoe by cuttings is in the spring or early summer, when the plant is in an active growth phase. This ensures that the cuttings root faster and grow well. Avoid taking cuttings during the winter months, when the plant is dormant and growing less actively. By taking cuttings during the growing season, you increase the chance of successful root development.

How to Propagate Kalanchoe?

Propagating Kalanchoe is relatively simple, and you can do this in various ways, depending on the type of cutting you choose. Make sure to use sharp, clean scissors or a knife so as not to damage the plant. After you have collected the right cutting material, you can place the cuttings in soil or water, depending on the method you prefer.

Propagating Kalanchoe by Leaf Cutting

One of the simplest methods to propagate Kalanchoe is by means of a leaf cutting. 

1. Choose a healthy leaf
Select a firm, healthy leaf from your Kalanchoe plant. Make sure the leaf is not damaged, as this increases the chance of root growth.

2. Cut off the leaf
Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the leaf off the plant. Cut close to the stem to obtain a large, healthy leaf.

3. Let the leaf dry
Let the leaf dry for a few hours in a clean, dry place. This helps the wound heal and prevents the leaf from rotting when you place it in the soil.

4. Place the leaf in soil
Place the dried leaf in a pot with well-draining soil. Press the leaf lightly into the soil, but ensure that it is not planted too deep.

5. Wait for root growth
After a few weeks, the roots will begin to develop. Keep the soil slightly moist, but not too wet, and ensure that the pot is in a bright spot (without direct sunlight).

6. Transplanting
As soon as the roots are clearly visible, you can carefully transplant the cutting into a larger pot to continue growing.

Propagating Kalanchoe by Stem Cutting

Another popular method for propagating Kalanchoe is by means of a stem cutting.

1. Choose a healthy branch
Select a sturdy, healthy branch from your Kalanchoe, preferably with a few leaves on it. This increases the chance of successful root growth.

2. Cut off the branch
Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the branch at an angle. Make sure to include a piece of the stem so that there is enough room for the roots to develop.

3. Let the cutting dry
Let the cutting dry for a few hours in a clean, dry place. This helps the wound heal and prevents rotting as soon as you place the cutting in water or soil.

4. Place the cutting in water or soil

• In water: Place the cutting in a glass of water so that the bottom stem is submerged. Place the glass in a bright spot, but not in direct sunlight. Change the water regularly to keep the roots healthy.
• In soil: Place the cutting about 2-3 cm deep in a pot with well-draining soil. Lightly press the soil around the cutting.

5. Wait for root growth
After a few weeks, the roots will begin to develop. Continue to water the cutting regularly, but ensure that the soil is not too wet.

6. Transplanting
As soon as the roots are clearly visible (usually after 2-3 weeks in water), you can transplant the cutting into a larger pot with soil.

Kalanchoe Cuttings in Water

If you prefer to propagate your Kalanchoe in water, that is certainly possible! Place the stem cutting or leaf cutting in a glass of water so that the bottom part is submerged. Place the glass in a bright spot, but out of direct sunlight. Change the water regularly to keep it healthy. After a few weeks, roots will start to grow. As soon as the roots are about 2-3 cm long, you can plant the cutting in soil.

Kalanchoë Species Propagation by Cuttings (Thyrsiflora and Beharensis Cuttings)

There are various Kalanchoe species, and these can also be propagated by cuttings. Two popular varieties are Kalanchoe thyrsiflora and Kalanchoe beharensis. These species propagate in the same way as the regular Kalanchoe, but there are some nuances.

• Kalanchoë thyrsiflora: This species has thick, fleshy leaves that root well when using a leaf cutting. Cut off a leaf and let it dry before placing it in a pot. Over time, the roots will develop and you can transplant the cutting.

• Kalanchoë beharensis: Also known as the "Felted Leaf Kalanchoe", this species has a unique, felt-like leaf. Just like the other species, you can cut off the stem or leaf, let it dry, and then plant it in soil or water.

Caring for Kalanchoe Cuttings

Once you have taken Kalanchoe cuttings, it is important to care for them properly to promote healthy root growth. Provide a bright location, but avoid direct sunlight, which can dry out the young cuttings. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water the cuttings regularly, but ensure that the water can drain well to prevent rot. As soon as the cuttings have developed roots, you can repot them into larger pots and care for them further as mature Kalanchoe plants.

Tips for Caring for Cuttings:

• Light: Place your cuttings in a bright spot, but out of direct sunlight.
• Water: Water regularly, but prevent the roots from standing in stagnant water.
• Temperature: Kalanchoe cuttings love warm temperatures between the 18-24°C.
• Patience: It can take a few weeks for the cuttings to form roots, so be patient.

Read more in our extensive blog about: Kalanchoë Care! 

With these simple methods, you can easily propagate your Kalanchoe and enjoy a beautiful collection of this colorful houseplant. Whether you choose leaf cuttings, stem cuttings, or water propagation, the Kalanchoe is an excellent plant for every plant lover to expand their collection.