Find out how to prune kalanchoe. Tips for pruning the plant back so that it grows bushy and healthy. Springtime and early summer are a good time to prune kalanchoe before it sets flower buds for the fall.
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Today, I am going to show you how to prune Kalanchoe. This was a question on my video about growing these beauties indoors, from Jody G. Thank you for asking that question because it makes a great video to show you here. So, I’ve got a little miniature Kalanchoe here, and I’m going to show you exactly how to prune this beauty.
Before pruning, make sure it actually needs pruning. Most likely, as with Jody’s plant, the Kalanchoe starts to get long on top, causing it to lean, which isn’t a good look. Pruning helps the plant focus energy on branching out rather than just growing a few long stems. When pruned correctly, the plant becomes more compact and looks better.
When pruning, always cut just above a set of leaves. The reason for this is that leaves contain a hormone that initiates new growth and branching out. For instance, if I were to cut below the leaves, that stem would just sit there without any new growth for a while, possibly until the stem died back on its own. So, pruning correctly saves time and encourages the plant to grow how you want it to.
When deciding where to cut, look at the plant carefully. Consider what would make it look rounded and well-formed. Make sure to avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant at a time. After pruning a third, wait several months before cutting more unless the plant is a particularly fast grower. Think of pruning like giving someone a haircut—you don’t want to go too far. Go slowly, and turn the plant as you prune to make sure it looks good from all directions.
Now, I am going to prune the plant. I’ve decided to cut to a certain spot, which will encourage new growth on both sides of the cut and make the plant bushier. I’m taking the top off here at the first leaf, which will help promote compact growth. Looking at it, I’ll take just one level down to keep it balanced. This time of year, it’s ideal to prune Kalanchoe, especially in Southern California, where it’s now the vegetative season. Pruning now prevents cutting off any latent buds that may form as it gets ready to bud up later in the season.
After pruning, you can root these cuttings. Since Kalanchoe is a succulent, let the cut ends callous before planting. You can root these in sand, vermiculite, or rooting mixtures. I’ll be doing future videos on propagating Kalanchoe, but for now, be sure to save the cuttings.
Now that I’ve pruned the plant, it looks nice and even. It’s ready to put on new roots and leaves, and it will be ready to bud and flower for the next season later in the year.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Pruning Kalanchoe
What is the best time to prune Kalanchoe?
The best time to prune Kalanchoe is during its vegetative season, which is generally in spring or early summer. This timing allows the plant to focus on new leaf and root growth and prepares it to bud and flower later in the year.
Why should I prune my Kalanchoe plant?
Pruning helps your Kalanchoe focus its energy on branching out, creating a fuller and more compact appearance. It prevents the plant from growing leggy or leaning and encourages more balanced, attractive growth.
Where should I make cuts when pruning Kalanchoe?
Always prune just above a set of leaves. This helps stimulate new growth from the node below the cut, leading to more branching and bushier growth. Avoid cutting below a set of leaves, as this can delay new growth.
How much of the plant should I prune at one time?
Limit pruning to one-third of the plant at a time to avoid stress. After pruning one-third, wait a few months before pruning again, especially if it’s not a fast-growing season for the plant.
Can I propagate Kalanchoe from pruned cuttings?
Yes, you can propagate Kalanchoe from the cuttings. Let the cut ends callous, then root them in sand, vermiculite, or a rooting mix. These cuttings will develop into new plants when properly cared for.
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