Bringing a Mexican hat plant (Kalanchoe daigremontiana) into your home is an exciting step for any plant lover. This fascinating succulent earns its nickname from the way tiny plantlets line the edges of its leaves, almost like miniature hats. While it’s a beginner-friendly plant, getting the watering just right is the key to helping your Kalanchoe daigremontiana look its best and thrive for years to come.
How Often Should You Water Kalanchoe daigremontiana?
Kalanchoe daigremontiana is a drought-tolerant succulent. This means it stores extra water in its thick leaves and doesn’t need frequent watering like other houseplants. As a rule of thumb, you should water your Mexican hat plant only when the soil is dry.
In practical terms:
- During spring and summer, water about every 10-14 days.
- In autumn and winter, when the plant’s growth slows, water only every 2-3 weeks—sometimes less.
Remember: These are guidelines. Factors like your home’s temperature, humidity, and pot size will affect how quickly the soil dries out. Always check the soil with your finger before watering. If the top 1-2 inches feel dry, it’s probably time for a drink.
How Much Water Does the Mexican Hat Plant Need?
Kalanchoe daigremontiana doesn’t like “wet feet.” Give it a moderate amount of water—just enough so water starts to drain out of the bottom of the pot.
- Use a pot with drainage holes.
- Water until you see some excess draining into the saucer.
- Discard extra water from the saucer after 15 minutes, so the plant doesn’t sit in moisture.
If you’re using a very small pot or your plant is young, cut back and water more carefully. Too much water at once can cause root problems.
Should You Spray or Mist a Mexican Hat Plant?
Unlike some tropical plants, the Mexican hat plant doesn’t need misting. In fact, spraying water on its leaves can sometimes lead to rot, especially if droplets sit for a long time.
If you want to boost humidity (for example, during very dry winter heating), it’s safer to place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Just make sure the bottom of the pot isn’t submerged.
What Are the Humidity Needs of Kalanchoe daigremontiana?
Kalanchoe daigremontiana is perfectly content with the average humidity found in most apartments. It doesn’t require high humidity—rooms that feel comfortable to you will likely work for your plant, too.
If your home is exceptionally dry (below 30% humidity), the plant may grow a bit slower, but it will still survive. There’s no need to run a humidifier for this succulent.
Is the Mexican Hat Plant Sensitive to Overwatering?
Absolutely. Overwatering is the #1 killer of Kalanchoe daigremontiana. It’s much better to err on the side of underwatering. Signs of too much water include yellowing, mushy leaves, or a musty smell from the soil.
If this happens:
- Remove the plant from soggy soil.
- Trim off any mushy or rotten roots.
- Repot into fresh, dry soil.
Is the Plant Drought Tolerant?
Yes! The Mexican hat plant evolved to survive in dry environments. You can forget to water it occasionally without harm. It will usually forgive you. If the leaves look wrinkled, it’s time to water, but don’t stress.
Is Bottom Watering or Watering from the Top Preferred?
You can use either method. Both work, as long as you let the soil dry out and avoid leaving the roots in standing water.
Many people prefer top watering for succulents, as it helps flush out any built-up salts. With bottom watering (setting the pot in a dish of water and letting the roots soak up moisture), be careful not to let the plant absorb too much.
Here’s a simple watering process:
1. Check the soil for dryness.
2. Water evenly around the base of the plant.
3. Allow excess water to drain completely.
What to Do With Excess Water After Watering?
Pour any extra water out of the saucer or cachepot after 10-15 minutes. This prevents soggy soil and root rot. Kalanchoe daigremontiana doesn’t like to sit in water—ever.
Summary: Helping Your Mexican Hat Plant Thrive
Watering your Mexican hat plant is all about balance. Let the soil dry before watering, give it a good soak (then pour away the excess), and don’t fuss over humidity or misting. Remember—it’s normal to over- or under-water at first. Just observe how your Kalanchoe daigremontiana responds and adjust as you go. With patience, your plant will reward you with healthy growth and plenty of adorable baby “hats” on its leaves!
