how often to water kalanchoe

3 min read 05-02-2025

Kalanchoe, with their cheerful blooms and succulent leaves, are popular houseplants. But proper watering is crucial for their health and longevity. Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot and plant death. This comprehensive guide will teach you exactly how often to water your Kalanchoe for thriving plants.

Understanding Kalanchoe Watering Needs

Kalanchoe are succulents, meaning they store water in their leaves. This makes them relatively drought-tolerant compared to other houseplants. They don't need frequent watering. Instead, they prefer to dry out slightly between waterings.

The frequency of watering depends on several factors, including the size of the pot, the type of potting mix, the environment, and the season.

How Often Should You Water a Kalanchoe?

The golden rule is to let the soil dry out completely before watering again. This usually means waiting anywhere from one to three weeks, depending on the conditions.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Signs Your Kalanchoe Needs Water:

Light Soil: The soil feels completely dry to the touch, even a couple of inches down.
Wilting Leaves: Slightly shriveled or drooping leaves (though significant wilting indicates serious underwatering and needs immediate attention).
Weight Check: Lift the pot. A lighter pot indicates dry soil.

Signs Your Kalanchoe Has Been Overwatered:

Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing leaves, especially lower leaves.
Soft, Mushy Stems: The stems may feel soft and squishy.
Root Rot: A foul odor from the soil could indicate rot.
Leaf Drop: Excessive leaf drop indicates a problem. Could be over or under watering.

Watering Techniques for Kalanchoe

When you do water your Kalanchoe, do it thoroughly. Water until water drains from the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. This ensures the roots are properly hydrated. Don't let the pot sit in standing water; this can lead to root rot.

It's best to water your Kalanchoe deeply but infrequently. Shallow, frequent watering can prevent the roots from reaching deeper into the soil for moisture, making the plant more vulnerable to drought stress.

Factors Affecting Watering Frequency

Pot Size and Potting Mix:

Smaller pots dry out faster than larger ones. Well-draining potting mix is crucial. A mix specifically formulated for succulents is ideal. Avoid heavy clay soil.

Environment:

Temperature and humidity affect how quickly the soil dries. In hot, dry environments, you'll need to water more frequently. In cooler, more humid conditions, less frequent watering is usually needed.

Season:

During the growing season (spring and summer), your Kalanchoe will need more frequent watering than in the dormant season (fall and winter). Reduce watering frequency in winter when growth slows down.

Troubleshooting Watering Issues

My Kalanchoe is Drooping:

Drooping can indicate both underwatering and overwatering. Check the soil moisture. If the soil is dry, water thoroughly. If the soil is wet, allow it to dry out completely before watering again. You may need to repot the plant into fresh soil if root rot is suspected.

My Kalanchoe Has Yellowing Leaves:

Yellowing leaves are often a sign of overwatering. Let the soil dry out completely before watering again. Make sure the pot has adequate drainage.

Conclusion: The Key to Happy Kalanchoe

The best way to water your Kalanchoe is to check the soil moisture regularly and water only when it's completely dry. This allows the plant to use its stored water efficiently. Remember to adjust your watering schedule based on the environment and season for healthy, thriving Kalanchoe plants. Consistent attention and careful monitoring will help you avoid overwatering—the most common problem with these delightful succulents.