Kalanchoe daigremontiana Sudden Leaf Drop - Causes & Fixes

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Overwatering and Root Rot

This succulent is highly susceptible to fungal pathogens like Phytophthora if the substrate remains saturated. Excess moisture causes root decay, which prevents water transport to the foliage, triggering a stress response known as leaf abscission.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Gently lift the plant from its pot to check if the roots are dark, slimy, or have a foul odor.

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1 Immediately remove the plant from the saturated soil and trim away any mushy, blackened, or foul-smelling roots using sterilized shears.

2 Repot the Kalanchoe in a well-draining, gritty substrate specifically designed for succulents to prevent future water retention.

3 Use a moisture meter to monitor the soil, ensuring you only water when the substrate is completely dry to the touch.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

In Stock

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Temperature Shock (Cold Stress)

Kalanchoe daigremontiana is a tropical succulent that cannot tolerate temperatures below 50°F (10°C). A sudden drop in temperature causes cellular damage and forces the plant to shed leaves to conserve energy.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Check if the fallen leaves appear dark or translucent and if there has been a recent cold snap in your environment.

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1 Immediately move the plant to a warm, draft-free location where temperatures remain consistently above 50°F (10°C).

2 Check the soil moisture levels to ensure the plant is not also suffering from root rot, as cold, wet soil can exacerbate stress.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

In Stock

3 Avoid fertilizing the plant until new growth appears and it has fully recovered from the temperature shock.

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Extreme Drought Stress

While drought-tolerant, severe dehydration causes the plant to prioritize moisture retention in its stem and thick leaves by shedding older foliage. This is a survival mechanism to reduce the overall transpiration surface area.

Common

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How to confirm: Check if the soil is bone dry and if the remaining leaves feel thin, wrinkled, or limp.

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1 Check the soil moisture level immediately using a moisture meter to confirm the depth of dehydration.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

In Stock

2 Thoroughly soak the soil with water until it drains from the bottom, ensuring the root ball is fully rehydrated.

Chapin 48000 0.5G Watering Can

2.3 L • Recycled Plastic

$12

In Stock

3 Apply a diluted liquid seaweed fertilizer to help the plant recover from environmental stress and boost nutrient uptake.

FoxFarm Bush Doctor Kelp Me Kelp You Liquid Seaweed Fertilizer 1 Pint

0.5 L • 1 pcs

$20

In Stock

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Pest Infestation (Mealybugs or Scale)

Sap-sucking insects can weaken the plant's vascular system by draining nutrients. Heavy infestations on the leaf petioles can cause the plant to drop leaves as it loses the ability to support them.

Common

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How to confirm: Inspect the leaf axils and undersides of remaining leaves for small, white cottony masses or hard bumps.

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1 Isolate the plant immediately and treat the infestation with an organic insecticide to kill mealybugs or scale insects.