How to Propagate Kalanchoe From Cuttings

Creating new Kalanchoe plants from a single parent is a straightforward process. These succulents are known for their resilience, making propagation an accessible project for any gardener. By taking a small piece from an existing plant, you can replicate it and multiply your collection. This method is cost-effective and a rewarding way to engage with the lifecycle of your houseplants.

When to Propagate and What You’ll Need

Timing your propagation efforts to coincide with the plant’s natural growth cycle increases the likelihood of success. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring and summer, the active growing season for Kalanchoe. During this period, cuttings will be primed to develop roots more quickly.

Before you begin, gathering a few simple items will ensure the process is clean and efficient. You will need a pair of sharp, sterilized scissors or pruning shears to make a clean cut. A small, clean pot with drainage holes is necessary, along with a well-draining potting mix formulated for succulents and cacti.

Taking Kalanchoe Cuttings

The most common method for propagating Kalanchoe is by taking a stem cutting. Select a healthy, robust stem that is not currently flowering. An ideal cutting should be approximately three to four inches long and have several sets of leaves. Using your clean shears, make a cut just above a leaf node, which is the small bump on the stem where leaves emerge.

Once you have your cutting, prepare it for planting by gently removing the leaves from the bottom two inches of the stem. This bare section is what will be planted in the soil to grow new roots. Any leaves left below the soil level could rot, which would compromise the health of the new plant.

It is also possible to propagate Kalanchoe from a single leaf. To do this, choose a plump, healthy leaf and gently twist it from the stem. Ensure you get the entire base of the leaf where it connects to the plant.

Rooting Kalanchoe Cuttings

After taking a cutting, it is important to allow the cut end to dry and form a callus. Place the cutting in a dry, shaded area for two to three days. This drying period seals the open wound, significantly reducing the risk of rot when the cutting is planted. The callused end will be dry to the touch and appear slightly shrunken.

Once the callus has formed, the cutting is ready for planting. Fill your pot with a well-draining succulent mix and poke a small hole in the center with a pencil or your finger. Insert the bare end of the stem into the hole, ensuring it is deep enough to stand upright, and gently firm the soil around the base to secure it.

After planting, water the soil lightly, just enough to moisten it. Avoid saturating the soil, as too much moisture can lead to rot before the roots have a chance to develop. Rooting in water is not recommended for succulents like Kalanchoe, as they are highly susceptible to rotting in overly wet conditions.

Aftercare for Propagated Kalanchoe

Place the potted cutting in a location where it will receive bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can be too intense for a young cutting without roots and may cause it to scorch. Watering should be done sparingly during this initial rooting phase. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.

To check for moisture, you can insert your finger about an inch into the soil; if it feels dry, it’s time to water lightly. Overwatering is the most common issue with new succulent cuttings. Withhold any fertilizer until the plant has developed a solid root system and shows signs of new growth.

You will know the propagation has been successful when you see new leaves beginning to form at the tip of the cutting. You can also test for root growth by giving the cutting a very gentle tug; if you feel resistance, it means roots have anchored the plant. This process can take a few weeks to a month. Once you observe new growth, you can begin to care for your new Kalanchoe as you would a mature plant.