Kalanchoe fedtschenkoi, often known as ‘Lavender Scallops’, is a popular succulent cherished for its distinctive scalloped leaves, which can develop beautiful lavender or pink hues under proper light. This plant is remarkably easy to propagate, making it a favorite among gardeners. Propagating means creating new plants from an existing parent plant, offering an economical way to multiply your collection, share with others, or preserve a beloved specimen.
Preparing for Propagation
The optimal time to propagate ‘Lavender Scallops’ is during its active growing season, typically from spring through early summer. During this period, the plant channels energy into growth, which significantly enhances the success rate of new cuttings and plantlets.
Gather clean, sharp cutting tools, such as a sterile knife, scissors, or pruners, to make precise cuts and minimize damage. Prepare small pots or trays filled with a well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix, as this specialized soil provides necessary aeration and drainage to prevent rot. A rooting hormone can also be used to encourage faster root development.
Select healthy plant material from the parent ‘Lavender Scallops’. Choose mature, vibrant leaves or non-flowering stems that are free from disease or pest damage. Healthy cuttings possess the stored energy and vitality needed to develop strong root systems and new growth.
Step-by-Step Propagation Methods
Leaf Cuttings
Propagating ‘Lavender Scallops’ from leaf cuttings is a straightforward method. Begin by carefully twisting a healthy, plump leaf from the parent plant, ensuring the entire leaf detaches cleanly.
Allow the cut end to “callus” or dry out for several days, typically one to three days. This forms a protective seal, preventing rot once planted. Once callused, lay the leaf flat on the surface of your prepared potting mix, ensuring the cut end contacts the soil.
New plantlets will emerge from the edges of the callused leaf. Lightly mist the soil surface occasionally, keeping it slightly moist but never soggy, to encourage root development. Patience is key, as rooting and new growth can take several weeks.
Stem Cuttings
Another effective propagation method involves taking stem cuttings. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem section that is approximately 2 to 4 inches long. Make a precise cut just below a leaf node, which is a small bump on the stem where leaves or roots typically emerge.
Remove the lower leaves from the bottom portion of the stem cutting. This prevents rotting and clears space for root formation. Allow the stem cutting to callus for a few days, similar to leaf cuttings, before planting.
Once callused, plant the stem cutting upright into the well-draining succulent mix, ensuring at least one or two leaf nodes are buried beneath the soil surface. Alternatively, some growers root stem cuttings in a small jar of water, provided the water is changed every few days, then transition to soil once roots are established.
Plantlets (Bulbils)
‘Lavender Scallops’ also offers a unique and easy propagation method through its naturally occurring plantlets, or bulbils. These tiny, pre-formed plantlets develop along the scalloped edges of mature leaves. They are miniature versions of the parent plant.
To propagate, gently pull them off the edges of the parent leaf; they detach with minimal effort. Place these plantlets directly onto the surface of a well-draining succulent potting mix.
While some suggest callusing, many can be planted immediately. Lightly mist the soil around the plantlets, maintaining a slightly moist environment until they establish. These plantlets root and grow quickly.
Aftercare for New Plants
Once cuttings or plantlets show signs of new growth, aftercare focuses on establishment. Water lightly only when the soil has completely dried out, using a “soak and dry” method to prevent oversaturation and rot. Provide bright, indirect light, as direct sun can scorch tender new foliage.
Maintain a stable environment. ‘Lavender Scallops’ thrives in temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (15-29°C), so protect them from extreme temperature fluctuations. Ensure adequate air circulation around the plants to deter fungal issues, especially in humid conditions.
As new plants grow, they will require more space. Transition them to slightly larger pots (one size up) once they are root-bound or have significantly outgrown their initial containers. Once established, care for them like mature ‘Lavender Scallops’ specimens.