All You need to know about Walking Kalanchoe

Walking Kalanchoe, also known as Kalanchoe pinnata or Bryophyllum pinnatum, is a succulent plant native to Madagascar but can also be found in other tropical regions worldwide.

It is a popular houseplant due to its low maintenance and attractive appearance, with thick, fleshy, green leaves that have scalloped edges and a serrated appearance. The plant produces small, tubular, pink or purple flowers that bloom in clusters on tall stems.

How to grow and take care of the Walking Kalanchoe?

The Walking Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe pinnata), also known as the Air Plant or Life Plant, is a succulent plant native to Madagascar, but it can be found in many tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Here are some tips on how to grow and take care of the Walking Kalanchoe:

1. Light: The Walking Kalanchoe requires bright but filtered light to thrive. It can tolerate direct sunlight, but too much can burn the leaves. If you’re growing it indoors, place it near a south-facing window or under a grow light.
2. Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and doesn’t like to be overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering, and avoid getting water on the leaves. Watering once a week is usually sufficient.
3. Temperature: The Walking Kalanchoe prefers temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C) and can tolerate some fluctuations. Protect it from extreme cold or heat.
4. Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that’s rich in nutrients. You can make your own mix by combining potting soil, perlite, and sand.
5. Fertilizer: The Walking Kalanchoe doesn’t require a lot of fertilizer, but you can feed it with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
6. Pruning: If your Walking Kalanchoe gets too leggy or out of shape, you can prune it back. This will encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Use a sharp, clean pair of scissors or pruning shears to remove the stem tips.
7. Propagation: The Walking Kalanchoe is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting, remove the bottom leaves, and let it callus over for a day or two. Then plant it in a well-draining soil mix and water sparingly until it roots.

By following these tips, you can successfully grow and care for your Walking Kalanchoe, and enjoy its attractive foliage and delicate blooms.

What is the lifespan of Walking Kalanchoe?

In ideal growing conditions, the Walking Kalanchoe can live for up to five years or more. With proper care, it can continue to produce new growth and flowers each year, but eventually, it may become leggy or less vigorous as it ages.

The lifespan of the Walking Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe pinnata) can vary depending on growing conditions and other factors, but in general, it is a perennial plant that can live for several years. Pruning and propagation can help rejuvenate the plant and extend its lifespan.

How to water it?

The Walking Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe pinnata) is a succulent plant that does not like to be overwatered. Here are some tips on how to water your Walking Kalanchoe:

1. Water when the soil is dry: Before watering your Walking Kalanchoe, check the soil moisture level. The top 1-2 inches of soil should be completely dry before watering again. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot and lead to the death of the plant.
2. Water sparingly: When you do water your Walking Kalanchoe, give it a thorough soak, but be careful not to let it sit in standing water. Watering once a week is usually sufficient, but this may vary depending on the temperature, humidity, and other growing conditions.
3. Avoid getting water on the leaves: The leaves of the Walking Kalanchoe are sensitive to moisture, so try to water at the base of the plant, and avoid getting water on the leaves. Wet leaves can lead to fungal and bacterial diseases.
4. Use well-draining soil: The Walking Kalanchoe prefers well-draining soil that allows excess water to drain away from the roots. Use a potting mix that contains perlite, sand, or other materials that promote drainage.
5. Adjust watering frequency in winter: In the winter, when the plant is not actively growing, it will require less water. Be sure to adjust your watering frequency accordingly.

By following these watering tips, you can help your Walking Kalanchoe thrive and avoid common problems such as root rot or overwatering.

How to prune it?

Pruning the Walking Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe pinnata) is a simple process that can help to maintain the shape and health of the plant, as well as encourage new growth and blooming. Here are some tips on how to prune your Walking Kalanchoe:

1. Use clean, sharp pruning shears: Before pruning, make sure your pruning shears are clean and sharp. This will prevent the spread of diseases and ensure a clean cut.
2. Identify the stems to prune: Look for any stems that are overgrown, leggy, or damaged. These stems can be pruned back to a leaf node or the base of the plant.
3. Remove the stems: Once you’ve identified the stems to prune, use your pruning shears to make a clean cut. If you’re pruning back to a leaf node, make the cut just above the node. If you’re pruning back to the base of the plant, cut as close to the base as possible without damaging the plant.
4. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves: While you’re pruning, take the opportunity to remove any dead or yellowing leaves from the plant. This will improve the overall appearance of the plant and help to prevent disease.
5. Propagate the cuttings: If you’ve pruned back a stem, you can propagate the cutting by letting it dry for a day or two and then planting it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and the cutting should root within a few weeks.

By following these pruning tips, you can help to maintain the health and appearance of your Walking Kalanchoe, as well as propagate new plants from cuttings.

How big does it grow?

The Walking Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe pinnata) is a small to medium-sized plant that typically grows to a height of about 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 cm) and spreads out to a width of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm). It has a rosette of long, narrow, dark green leaves that can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) long and 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. The plant can produce a tall stalk of small, star-shaped, pink or white flowers that can grow up to 3 feet (90 cm) tall. The size of the plant can vary depending on the growing conditions, as well as the age of the plant. With proper care, the Walking Kalanchoe can grow to its full size and produce flowers throughout the growing season.

Which soil is the best for growing it?

The Walking Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe pinnata) prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A well-draining soil mix will allow excess water to drain away from the roots and prevent them from becoming waterlogged, which can lead to root rot and other problems. Here are some tips on the best soil mix for your Walking Kalanchoe:

1. Use a commercial potting mix: A commercial potting mix that is formulated for succulents and cacti can be a good choice for the Walking Kalanchoe. These mixes are often formulated with materials like perlite, sand, and peat moss that promote good drainage.
2. Add inorganic materials: You can add inorganic materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to your soil mix to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging. Aim for a mix that is about 50% organic matter and 50% inorganic materials.
3. Add compost: Adding compost to your soil mix can help to improve the nutrient content and water retention of the soil. Aim for a compost that is well-rotted and doesn’t contain large chunks or debris.
4. Avoid heavy soils: The Walking Kalanchoe does not do well in heavy, clay soils that retain water. These soils can lead to waterlogged roots and root rot.

By using a well-draining soil mix and following proper watering and fertilizing practices, you can help your Walking Kalanchoe grow strong and healthy.

Where can I buy it?

You may be able to find Walking Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe pinnata) plants at your local garden center or nursery, especially if you live in a region where this plant is commonly grown. You can also check with online plant retailers or marketplaces, such as Amazon or Etsy, to see if they have Walking Kalanchoe available for purchase. Another option is to look for Walking Kalanchoe cuttings or seeds online or from specialty plant sellers. When purchasing plants or cuttings online, be sure to check the seller’s reputation and shipping policies to ensure that you are getting a healthy, quality plant.

Summary

In this post, we discussed the Walking Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe pinnata), a succulent plant known for its medicinal properties and unique growth habit. We covered topics such as the care and maintenance of the plant, including watering, soil, light, and pruning. We also talked about the plant’s size and lifespan, as well as where to purchase it. Overall, the Walking Kalanchoe is a relatively easy plant to care for, and with proper attention, it can thrive and make a beautiful addition to any indoor or outdoor garden.

Have a nice day!