Detailed Guide to Bear's Paw Leaf Cuttings Propagation, Beginners Can Learn It Easily

Bear's Paw (Kalanchoe tomentosa) leaf cuttings propagation can be done in spring and autumn. The substrate should preferably be a loose, breathable, well-draining, sandy soil rich in humus. Cut a section of healthy, robust growth from the mother plant, taking care to keep the top 4 leaves. After disinfecting and drying, insert the cutting into the substrate, and it will root in about 15 days.

Steps for Bear's Paw Leaf Cuttings Propagation

1. Timing of Leaf Cuttings

Before propagating Bear's Paw by leaf cuttings, choose a suitable time for taking cuttings. Generally speaking, cuttings can be taken in spring, summer, and autumn, but overall spring and autumn are best, because these are its vigorous growth periods, and after taking cuttings the survival rate is relatively high, with fast rooting and sprouting. In other seasons, the guaranteed rate is not as high.

2. Substrate Preparation

Before taking Bear's Paw leaf cuttings, prepare suitable soil. Since it likes to grow in loose, breathable, well-draining, sandy soil rich in humus, the most suitable soil mix ratio is four parts leaf mold, three parts garden soil, and three parts sand, mixed evenly, along with some base fertilizer.

3. Cutting Selection and Cutting

For selecting cuttings, generally choose relatively healthy and plump branches. Cut a section of healthy, robust growth from the mother plant, taking care to keep the top 4 leaves; disinfect the wound with potassium permanganate solution, and place it in a cool, ventilated spot to dry.

4. Cutting into the Substrate

Insert the dried cutting into the soil to a depth of 2-4 cm, water appropriately to maintain a certain level of moisture, and after about half a month you will see roots growing, which indicates the cutting has survived. When new leaves grow, it can be transplanted into a pot.