Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Yellow Leaves - Causes & Fixes

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Overwatering and Root Rot

Kalanchoe are succulents that store water in their leaves; excessive moisture causes the roots to suffocate and decay, leading to chlorosis (yellowing) as the plant can no longer transport nutrients.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Stick your finger two inches into the soil; if it feels damp but the leaves are turning yellow, the roots may be rotting.

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1 Immediately remove the plant from its current pot and trim away any mushy, black, or foul-smelling decayed roots using sterilized shears.

2 Repot the Kalanchoe in a fresh, well-draining succulent mix and use a container with excellent drainage, such as a Root & Vessel cylinder pot, to prevent future water pooling.

Root & Vessel Majestic Low Profile Black 6.5"

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3 Monitor the soil moisture levels closely using an analog moisture meter to ensure the soil is completely dry before watering again.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

In Stock

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Nutrient Deficiency (Nitrogen)

A lack of nitrogen prevents the formation of chlorophyll, causing older, lower leaves to turn pale yellow before progressing up the plant.

Common

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How to confirm: Observe if the yellowing starts specifically on the oldest leaves at the base of the stem while new growth remains green.

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1 Apply a nitrogen-rich liquid fertilizer to boost chlorophyll production and green up the foliage.

FoxFarm Grow Big Liquid Plant Food 1 Quart

0.9 L • 1 pcs

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2 Check the soil moisture levels with a meter to ensure nitrogen is being effectively absorbed and not being leached away by overwatering.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

In Stock

3 Prune away the most severely yellowed lower leaves to allow the plant to redirect energy to new growth.

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Insufficient Light Exposure

While Kalanchoe need bright light, being in deep shade prevents efficient photosynthesis, causing the plant to mobilize nutrients from older leaves to support new growth.

Common

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How to confirm: Check if the plant is located in a dark corner or if the stems are becoming excessively elongated (etiolated) alongside the yellowing.

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1 Move your Kalanchoe to a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight to restore efficient photosynthesis.

2 If natural light is insufficient, supplement with a full-spectrum LED grow light to provide the necessary energy for new growth.

SANSI 20W Full Spectrum Gooseneck Grow Light

Grow Lights

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3 Monitor the soil moisture levels closely, as insufficient light can slow down water evaporation and lead to overwatering.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

In Stock

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Temperature Stress/Cold Drafts

Kalanchoe are tropical succulents that are sensitive to temperatures below 50°F (10°C); sudden drops in temperature can cause physiological stress and leaf yellowing.

Common

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How to confirm: Check if the plant is positioned near a drafty window or an air conditioning vent.

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shopping_cart Recommended Products

1 Move your Kalanchoe away from cold windows, doors, or air conditioning vents to a stable environment above 50°F.

2 Monitor the soil moisture closely, as temperature drops can slow evaporation and lead to overwatering.