How to Propagate and Care for Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe Plant is a diverse and beautiful genus of succulent plants known for its resilience and vibrant blooms.

Kalanchoe is a diverse genus of succulent plants originating from Madagascar and other regions in Africa.

These plants have become popular for their ability to thrive in various conditions and their vibrant, long-lasting blooms. With numerous species and varieties, Kalanchoe offers a wide range of choices for indoor and outdoor gardening.

This comprehensive guide provides valuable information on cultivating, caring for, and nurturing various species of Kalanchoe, catering to both new and experienced plant enthusiasts.

Kalanchoe Quick Guide

Why You Should Grow Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe is a popular succulent genus known for its attractive foliage and vibrant blooms.

Growing kalanchoe offers several benefits and can be a rewarding experience for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Here are some reasons why you should consider growing kalanchoe:

1. Easy Care: Kalanchoes are generally easy to care for and require minimal attention. They are drought-tolerant and can survive with infrequent watering. Their succulent leaves store water, making them resilient to periods of neglect.
2. Beautiful Blooms: Kalanchoes are valued for their long-lasting and colorful flowers. They come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, white, and purple. Their blooms can last for months, adding vibrancy and cheer to any indoor or outdoor space.
3. Variety of Species: The Kalanchoe genus comprises over 125 species, each with unique characteristics and appearances. This diversity allows you to choose varieties that suit your preferences and growing conditions. Some species have trailing or cascading growth habits, while others are more upright and compact.
4. Air Purification: Kalanchoes, like other succulents, contribute to air purification by removing harmful toxins and pollutants from the indoor environment. They are particularly effective at removing formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.
5. Low Maintenance: Kalanchoes are generally low-maintenance plants and do not require frequent repotting or fertilization. They are also relatively pest and disease resistant, making them easy to manage even for beginner gardeners.
6. Adaptability: Kalanchoes can thrive in a variety of environments, both indoors and outdoors. They can tolerate a range of light conditions, from bright indirect sunlight to partial shade. Some species are even cold-hardy and can withstand mild frost.
7. Propagation Ease: Kalanchoes are easy to propagate from leaf cuttings or division. This allows you to expand your collection or share these beautiful plants with friends and family.
8. Stress Reduction: Studies have shown that interacting with plants can reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. Kalanchoes, with their colorful blooms and attractive foliage, can contribute to a calming and serene atmosphere.
9. Gift Idea: Kalanchoes make excellent gifts for any occasion. Their vibrant blooms and easy-care nature make them a thoughtful and appreciated gesture.
10. Beginner-Friendly: Kalanchoes are an excellent choice for beginner gardeners due to their low-maintenance requirements and tolerance for some neglect. They are a great way to gain confidence in plant care and nurturing life.

Kalanchoe Varieties

Here is a list of the most popular and readily available kalanchoe varieties:

Flaming Katy (Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana)

This popular kalanchoe is known for its showy, long-lasting blooms in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, and white. It is a compact and easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in sunny locations.

2. ‘Oracular’ (Kalanchoe luciae ‘Oracular’)

This unique kalanchoe has distinctive, spoon-shaped leaves with a velvety texture and a mottled green and purple coloration. It is a slow-growing plant that prefers bright, indirect light.

3. Flapjack (Kalanchoe thyrsiflora)

This kalanchoe is named for its flat, paddle-shaped leaves that are arranged in clusters along the stems. The leaves are a vibrant green color with a slightly glossy texture. It is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers full sun to partial shade.

4. Blooming Boxes (Kalanchoe Proliferate)

This kalanchoe is characterized by its small, clustered leaves that are densely arranged on the stems. The leaves are a bright green color with a slightly fuzzy texture. It is a prolific bloomer with small, yellow flowers.

5. Panda Plant (Kalanchoe tomentosa)

This kalanchoe is known for its fuzzy, silvery-green leaves that resemble the fur of a panda bear. The leaves are soft to the touch and add a touch of whimsy to any indoor space. It prefers bright, indirect light.

6. Coral Bells (Kalanchoe uniflora)

This kalanchoe has delicate, bell-shaped flowers that hang gracefully from its stems. The flowers come in shades of red, pink, and orange. It is a compact plant that prefers bright, indirect light.

7. Marnier’s Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe Marnie Riana)

This kalanchoe is known for its unique, star-shaped flowers with ruffled edges. The flowers come in shades of pink, orange, and yellow. It is a compact plant that prefers bright, indirect light.

8. Donkey Ears (Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri)

This kalanchoe has large, spoon-shaped leaves with a slightly concave surface that resembles donkey ears. The leaves are a deep green color with a slightly glossy texture. It is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers full sun to partial shade.

9. Kalanchoe Humilis (Kalanchoe humilis)

This kalanchoe is a groundcover species with small, oval-shaped leaves that are densely packed on the stems. The leaves are a bright green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers bright, indirect light.

10. Pies from Heaven (Kalanchoe Rhomb Pilosa)

This kalanchoe has distinctive, rhombus-shaped leaves with a velvety texture and a mottled green and purple coloration. It is a slow-growing plant that prefers bright, indirect light.

11. Mealy Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe Scaliger)

This kalanchoe is known for its dense covering of white hairs that give it a fuzzy appearance. The leaves are a pale green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers bright, indirect light.

12. Pretend Flowered Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe Manganic’Tessa’)

This kalanchoe has unique, boat-shaped leaves with a velvety texture and a mottled green and purple coloration. The leaves are arranged in clusters that resemble flowers. It prefers bright, indirect light.

13. Common Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe rotundifolia)

This kalanchoe is a versatile species with a wide range of leaf shapes and sizes. The leaves are typically a bright green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers bright, indirect light.

14. Alligator Plant (Kalanchoe Daigremontianin)

This kalanchoe is known for its prolific production of plantlets along the edges of its leaves. The plantlets can be easily propagated to create new plants. It prefers bright, indirect light.

15. Kalanchoe Beauvieri (Kalanchoe Beauvieri)

This kalanchoe is a small, compact plant with thick, fleshy leaves that are a deep green color with a slightly glossy texture. It is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers full sun to partial shade.

16. Kalanchoe Pinnata (Kalanchoe Pinnata)

This kalanchoe has distinctive, pinnate leaves that are deeply divided into multiple lobes. The leaves are a bright green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers bright, indirect light and can grow into a small shrub-like plant.

17. Kalanchoe Delahoensis (Kalanchoe Delahoensis)

This kalanchoe is known for its upright growth habit and its large, lobed leaves that are a deep green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers bright, indirect light and can grow into a medium-sized plant.

18. Kalanchoe Tubiflora (Kalanchoe Tubiflora)

This kalanchoe has distinctive, tubular-shaped flowers that are a vibrant orange color. The plant itself is a compact and easy-to-care-for choice for indoor spaces. It prefers bright, indirect light.

19. Kalanchoe Verticillata (Kalanchoe Verticillata)

This kalanchoe is known for its whorled arrangement of leaves, giving it a unique and interesting appearance. The leaves are a bright green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers bright, indirect light and adds a touch of distinction to any indoor collection.

20. Kalanchoe Pumila (Kalanchoe Pumila)

This kalanchoe is a miniature variety with small, rounded leaves that are a bright green color with a slightly glossy texture. It is a drought-tolerant plant that prefers full sun to partial shade and is a great choice for adding a touch of greenery to small spaces or terrariums.

21. Kalanchoe Tomentosa ‘Teddy Bear’

This is a variation of the popular Panda Plant, known for its dense covering of soft, furry leaves that resemble a teddy bear’s fur. The leaves are a silvery-green color and add a touch of cuteness to any indoor space. It prefers bright, indirect light.

22. Kalanchoe Lanata

This kalanchoe is known for its distinctive, wooly leaves that are covered in soft, white hairs. The leaves are a pale green color and add a touch of texture to any indoor space. It prefers bright, indirect light.

23. Kalanchoe Blossfeldiana ‘Calandiva’

This is a variation of the popular Flaming Katy, known for its compact growth habit and its large, showy flowers that come in a wide range of colors. It is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in sunny locations.

24. Kalanchoe Mischrenka

This kalanchoe is a hybrid variety that is known for its diverse range of leaf shapes and colors. The leaves can be green, purple, or even variegated, and they can have different textures and shapes. It is an easy-to-care-for plant that adds a touch of variety to any indoor collection.

25. Kalanchoe Ornata

This kalanchoe is known for its unique, star-shaped flowers with ruffled edges. The flowers come in shades of pink, orange, and yellow, and the plant itself is compact and easy to grow. It prefers bright, indirect light.

26. Kalanchoe crenata

This kalanchoe is a shrubby succulent with thick, fleshy leaves that are deeply lobed. The leaves are a deep green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers bright, indirect light and can grow into a medium-sized plant.

27. Kalanchoe beharensis

This kalanchoe is known for its unique, velvety-textured leaves that are covered in fine hairs. The leaves are a deep green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers bright, indirect light and adds a touch of texture to any indoor collection.

28. Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi

This kalanchoe is known for its delicate, bell-shaped flowers that hang gracefully from its stems. The flowers come in shades of lavender, pink, and purple. It is a compact plant that prefers bright, indirect light.

29. Kalanchoe gastonis-bonnieri ‘Lavender Scales’

This is a variation of the popular Donkey Ears kalanchoe, known for its unique, lavender-colored leaves with a scalloped edge. The leaves are a deep green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers full sun to partial shade and adds a touch of color to any garden.

30. Kalanchoe marnieriana

This kalanchoe is known for its unique, star-shaped flowers with ruffled edges. The flowers come in shades of pink, orange, and yellow, and the plant itself is compact and easy to grow. It prefers bright, indirect light.

31. Kalanchoe orgyalis

This kalanchoe is known for its unique, strap-shaped leaves that can grow up to 2 feet long. The leaves are a deep green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers bright, indirect light and adds a touch of drama to any indoor space.

32. Kalanchoe thyrsiflora ‘Erectus’

This is a variation of the popular Flapjack kalanchoe, known for its upright growth habit and its large, paddle-shaped leaves that are arranged in clusters along the stems. The leaves are a vibrant green color with a slightly glossy texture. It prefers bright, indirect light.

33. Kalanchoe delagoensis ‘Bryophyllum’

This is a variation of the popular Alligator Plant, known for its prolific production of plantlets along the edges of its leaves. The plantlets can be easily propagated to create new plants. It prefers bright, indirect light.

34. Kalanchoe blossfeldiana ‘Top Hat’

This is a variation of the popular Flaming Katy, known for its unique, flattened flowers that resemble top hats. The flowers come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, and white. It is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in sunny locations.

How To Propagate Kalanchoe Plant

You can make new Kalanchoe plants in different ways.

Here are a few common propagation techniques for Kalanchoe:

Leaf Cuttings:

1. Choose a healthy, mature leaf that is not too small or too large.
2. Make a clean cut on the underside of the leaf, using a sharp knife or pair of scissors.
3. Allow the cut end to dry out for a few days to prevent rot.
4. Plant the leaf in well-draining potting mix, ensuring the base of the leaf is buried slightly.
5. Spray water on the soil often to keep it damp but not too wet.
6. Put the pot in a spot with plenty of light, but not directly from the sun.
7. New plants will develop from the cut end of the leaf.

Stem Cuttings:

1. Choose a healthy, non-flowering stem that is approximately 4-6 inches long.
2. Make a clean cut just below a node, which is the swollen area where leaves emerge from the stem.
3. Take off any leaves from the lower part of the stem.
4. Put the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder to help roots grow.
5. Plant the stem in well-draining potting mix, ensuring the base of the stem is buried about an inch deep.
6. Spray water on the soil often to keep it damp but not too wet.
7. Put the pot in a spot with plenty of light, but not directly from the sun.
8. New roots will develop from the cut end of the stem.

Offsets (Pups):

1. These are small plantlets that grow along the edges of the leaves of certain kalanchoe varieties, such as the Alligator Plant.
2. Carefully take the new shoots away from the main plant.
3. Allow the offsets to callous over for a few days to prevent rot.
4. Plant the offsets in well-draining potting mix, ensuring the base of the offset is buried slightly.
5. Spray water on the soil often to keep it damp but not too wet.
6. Put the pot in a spot with plenty of light but not directly from the sun.
7. The offsets will grow into new plants.

Seeds:

1. Collect seeds from the Kalanchoe plant after the flowering period.
2. Sow the seeds in a seed-starting mix, covering them lightly with the mix.
3. Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a warm and bright environment to aid germination.

Propagation success often depends on providing appropriate environmental conditions, well-draining soil, and careful monitoring to ensure the newly propagated plants establish themselves effectively.

How To Buy Kalanchoe Plant From Nursey

Here are some tips on how to buy a kalanchoe plant from a nursery:

1. Choose a reputable nursery: Look for a nursery that has a good reputation and that specializes in succulents or tropical plants. This will increase your chances of finding a healthy, well-cared-for plant.
2. Inspect the plants carefully: Look for plants that are free from pests and diseases. The leaves should be firm and have a healthy color. Avoid plants that look wilted, have yellow or brown leaves, or have visible signs of pests or diseases.
3. Ask questions: If you are unsure about which kalanchoe variety to choose or how to care for it, don’t hesitate to ask the nursery staff for help. They can provide you with specific care instructions and recommendations for your climate and growing conditions.
4. Consider the size and color of the plant that you want. Kalanchoes come in a variety of sizes, from small miniature plants to larger shrubs. They also come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, orange, yellow, and white.
5. Consider the care requirements of the plant. Some kalanchoe varieties are easier to care for than others. If you are a beginner, it may be best to choose a variety that is known for being easy to grow.
6. Consider the budget. Kalanchoes can range in price from a few dollars to over $50. The price will depend on the size, variety, and pot of the plant.
7. Consider Seasonal Availability:
   • Kalanchoe plants might be more prevalent during their blooming season, often in late winter to early spring. Be mindful of the time of year for a wider selection.
8. Transportation: Ensure the plant is transported carefully to avoid damage. Protect the plant from extreme temperatures and wind during transportation, especially if it’s cold or hot outside.
9. Purchase and Guarantee: Check for any guarantees or return policies offered by the nursery. Some nurseries may offer warranties or advice on plant care.
10. Take Care Instructions: Before leaving the nursery, ask for specific care instructions for your chosen Kalanchoe variety. Ensure you have all the necessary information to maintain the plant’s health.

By following these tips, you can find a healthy, beautiful kalanchoe plant that will add a touch of color and life to your home.

How To Plant Kalanchoe

To plant Kalanchoe, follow these steps for successful establishment:

1. Selecting a Container: Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. The size should accommodate the plant with some space for growth.
2. Soil Preparation: Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for succulents or cacti. Alternatively, create a mix by combining regular potting soil with sand or perlite for improved drainage.
3. Planting: Place the Kalanchoe plant in the center of the container, ensuring it sits at the same depth as it did in its previous container. Gently fill in the sides with the potting mix.
4. Watering: Water the newly potted Kalanchoe lightly to settle the soil around the roots. Don’t water too much, as too much water can lead to root rot.
5. Light and Temperature:
   • Kalanchoe prefers bright, indirect light, so place the potted plant in a spot that receives adequate sunlight. However, shield it from harsh, direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorching.
   • Maintain a warm environment, as Kalanchoe thrives in temperatures around 60-85°F (15-29°C).
6. Care and Maintenance:
   • Regularly check the moisture level in the soil, allowing it to dry slightly between watering sessions.
   • Prune off any spent flowers or leggy growth to encourage new blooms and a bushier plant.
   • Fertilize occasionally during the growing season with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer designed for succulents.
7. Indoor/Outdoor Cultivation:
   • If you’re planting indoors, place the Kalanchoe in a well-lit area, such as near a window with filtered sunlight.
   • For outdoor planting, ensure the area receives bright but indirect sunlight, protecting it from extreme weather conditions.

How To Care For A Kalanchoe Plant

Kalanchoes are easy-to-care-for succulents that make great houseplants for beginners and experienced gardeners alike. Here are some general care tips for kalanchoes:

Total Time: 365 days

Light:

Kalanchoes need bright, indirect light to thrive.
Don’t put them in direct sunlight, as it can burn their leaves.
A south-facing window is often a good spot for a kalanchoe, but make sure to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day.
If you don’t have a south-facing window, you can try an east- or west-facing window.

Water:

Kalanchoes are drought-tolerant plants and do not need to be watered frequently.
Let the soil become completely dry before watering it again.
Overwatering is one of the most common causes of kalanchoe death.
When you do water, water thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes in the pot.

Humidity:

Kalanchoes do not require high humidity. They can do well in the average humidity of most homes.

Temperature:

Kalanchoes prefer warm temperatures, ideally between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t put them in places with drafts or close to air vents.

Soil:

Kalanchoes need a well-draining potting mix that is specifically formulated for succulents or cacti. You can get these mixes at most garden centers.

Fertilizer:

During the growing season (spring and summer), you can fertilize your kalanchoe every two weeks using a diluted balanced liquid fertilizer.

Repotting:

As your kalanchoe grows, you may need to repot it into a larger container.
Select a pot that is one to two sizes bigger than the current one.

Deadheading:

Once the flowers on your kalanchoe start to fade, you can deadhead them to encourage new blooms.
To deadhead, simply cut the flower stem back to the nearest node, which is the swollen area where leaves emerge from the stem.

Here are some additional tips for caring for your kalanchoe:

1. Rotate your kalanchoe every few weeks to ensure that it receives even light on all sides.
2. Dust the leaves of your kalanchoe occasionally to remove dust and dirt.
3. If your kalanchoe becomes leggy, you can trim it back to promote bushier growth.

Pests and Diseases:

Kalanchoe plants are generally hardy but can still be susceptible to certain pests and diseases.

Here are some common issues:

Kalanchoe Pests:

1. Aphids: Small insects that feed on plant sap, causing wilting and yellowing of leaves.
2. Mealybugs: White, cottony insects that cluster on stems and leaf nodes, draining the plant’s vitality.
3. Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids create fine webbing and cause stippling or yellowing of leaves.

Diseases:

1. Root Rot: Caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil, resulting in soggy roots and eventual rot.
2. Powdery Mildew: Fungal growth that appears as a powdery white substance on leaves, leading to leaf distortion and discoloration.

Prevention and Control:

1. Ensure proper watering practices, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
2. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat affected areas.
3. Maintain good air circulation and avoid overcrowding to prevent the spread of diseases.
4. If a plant is severely affected, consider pruning affected parts or using appropriate fungicides or insecticides as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

Pros and Cons of Growing kalanchoe Plant

Conclusion

Kalanchoe is a versatile and stunning succulent genus that adds beauty and character to any garden or indoor space.

With the right care and attention to its specific needs, Kalanchoe can be a delightful addition to your plant collection.

With a diverse range of kalanchoe varieties available, you can easily find the perfect ones to enhance your indoor or outdoor space.

Their beauty, ease of care, and adaptability make them excellent choices for gardeners of all levels of experience.

Overall, kalanchoes offer a multitude of reasons to consider growing them. Their beauty, ease of care, and air-purifying properties make them valuable additions to any home or garden.

Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, kalanchoes are sure to bring you years of enjoyment and satisfaction.

Enjoy your beautiful kalanchoe!

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Leafy Lines

Step into the world of plants and flowers brought to you by Leafy Lines, a devoted gardening lover and someone who enjoys playing with words about all things botanical.
With a love for nature and a talent for growing things, Leafy Lines is here to be your companion in the vibrant world of plants and gardening.
Leafy Lines started a gardening adventure driven by a passion to create, nurture, and feel connected to the earth. From the initial steps into potting soil to the thriving garden today, the path has been filled with trying new things, gaining knowledge, and a profound recognition of the therapeutic joys that come with gardening.

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