What are the propagation methods for Kalanchoe
This article provides a detailed explanation of the various propagation methods for Kalanchoe, as well as an overview of two common multiplication methods for this type of green ornamental plant. Let's learn more about it together.
Many flower enthusiasts particularly enjoy growing Kalanchoe, a type of succulent plant that is not only easy to care for but also has beautiful flowers and a long blooming period. Keeping several pots on the balcony can provide a view of flowers throughout the spring.
This type of flower with fleshy stems and leaves is also easy to root, and the branches can root and survive when inserted into potting soil. With just one mother plant at home, more Kalanchoe potted plants can be propagated the following year.
However, some flower enthusiasts say that Kalanchoe branches are particularly prone to rotting after propagation, leading to repeated failures. This usually happens because some minor details are not paid attention to during the propagation process. Below are two propagation methods for Kalanchoe that enthusiasts can use according to their needs.
Propagation by Stem Cutting
Kalanchoe has fleshy stems and leaves that root easily after cutting, especially after the plant finishes flowering in the spring when the branches are full of vitality. The survival rate of propagation can reach over 95%, and the cuttings can produce flower buds in the autumn of the same year.
1. Preparing Cuttings
It is best to propagate Kalanchoe after the flowers have faded in the spring when the branches are full of vitality. While trimming the spent flowers, it's also necessary to thin out dense and tangled branches, using these cut branches as cuttings.
After trimming the cuttings for this type of fleshy-stemmed plant, it's important to let the cut areas dry a bit before inserting them into moist potting soil, as wet cuts are prone to rot.
2. Propagation Substrate
When propagating some woody plants that are difficult to root, we often choose a substrate that retains water and allows for good air circulation, which makes it easier to root. However, Kalanchoe is not very picky about the substrate and can root even in regular garden soil. Of course, using a loose and well-draining potting mix can speed up the rooting process. Regardless of the soil used, it's best to let it sit in the sun for a few days before propagation to kill bacteria and eggs, reducing the risk of infection and rot.
What are the propagation methods for Kalanchoe
3. Post-Propagation Care
After preparing the Kalanchoe and substrate, there is no need to use rooting hormones to assist in rooting, which is only necessary for plants that are difficult to root. The cuttings can be directly inserted into the potting soil and placed in a shaded and well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. When the soil dries, sprinkle water to keep it slightly moist, and the cuttings should root and survive in about twenty days.
Leaf Propagation for Kalanchoe
Kalanchoe not only has a high survival rate when propagated by stem cuttings but can also be propagated using leaves. If you want to propagate a large number of new seedlings, this method can be used.
1. Picking Complete Leaves
When using Kalanchoe leaves for propagation, choose thick and plump leaves, and make sure to pick them from the petiole since the new seedlings will root from the petiole.
2. Leaf Propagation Method
There are two methods for leaf propagation of Kalanchoe. One is similar to stem cutting, where the petiole of the leaf is directly inserted into a loose and well-draining substrate, making sure not to insert it too deep into the soil. The other method is to lay the complete leaf flat on the surface of the substrate with the upper side facing up, keeping the substrate moist. The leaf will absorb moisture from the substrate and develop aerial roots, eventually rooting in the soil, and new seedlings will grow from the petiole after a period of time.
In conclusion, propagating Kalanchoe is simple and doesn't require special techniques. Enthusiasts can trim branches or pick leaves after the flowers have faded to propagate more Kalanchoe plants for the next year.
The above information provides an overview of the propagation methods for Kalanchoe and two common multiplication methods, which I hope will be helpful to you!