How Do I Propagate a Kalanchoe Plant?

Propagate kalanchoe in spring.

Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) is a durable blooming plant that is widely available during the late winter and early spring months. Native to Madagascar, kalanchoe varieties include both double and single bloomers in bright shades of magenta, red, yellow, orange, pink and white. The thick waxy leaves with scalloped edges make kalanchoe a particularly interesting indoor plant. The best time to propagate kalanchoe is after the plant finishes blooming in spring or early summer.

Things You'll Need

• 6- or 8-inch container
• Commercial potting mix or perlite and peat moss
• Spray bottle
• Sharp knife
• Clear plastic bag
• Rugger band
• Containers for repotting

Instructions

1. Fill a 6- or 8-inch container with commercial potting mixture or a mixture of half perlite and half peat moss. Any container with at least one drainage hole in the bottom will work. Dampen the potting mixture with a spray bottle.

2. Use a sharp knife to cut 2 to 4 inches from the tip of a healthy kalanchoe stem. Strip the leaves from the bottom half of the stem.

3. Place the stems in a warm dry place for four to six days, or until the cut edge of each stem forms a callus. Plant the stems in the potting mixture. Several stems can be planted in the same pot. Allow space so the stems won't touch.

4. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag. Secure the bag with a rubber band. Place the container in indirect light.

5. Plant each stem in an individual container filled with commercial potting mix after the stem takes root, which usually takes two to three weeks. Determine if the kalanchoe has taken root by tugging lightly on the stem. Roots will cause a slight resistance to your tug.

6. Place the newly-rooted kalanchoe where the plants will be exposed to at least four hours of sunlight every day. Water the plants when the top of the soil feels dry to the touch, then let the water drain through the bottom of the pot.

References

• Clemson Cooperative Extension: Kalanchoe
• University of Illinois: Kalanchoe