Can I replant the fallen segments?

Yes, you can often root healthy segments in moist soil. Place them in a small pot and keep them in bright, indirect light.

Does low light cause leaf drop?

Yes, if the plant does not get enough light, it may drop segments to survive. Move it to a brighter spot with indirect light.

Thanksgiving cactus: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the plant is near a heater or cold draft.
Feel the soil to see if it is extremely dry or soaking wet.
Look for signs of pests in the joints.

Likely causes

Temperature Fluctuations
Most likely
How to tell: The plant is near a drafty window, a heater, or an air conditioning vent. Leaves fall off shortly after the temperature shifts.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with stable temperatures away from vents or doors. Keep it in a room that stays between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Water Stress
Most likely
How to tell: The soil is bone dry for too long or constantly soaked. The segments look shriveled before they drop off.
What to do: Adjust your watering schedule to ensure the soil stays slightly moist but never soggy. Water thoroughly every 7 to 14 days depending on your home's humidity.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your thanksgiving cactus

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

A few segments dropping after you move the plant is normal as it adjusts to a new spot. If the plant is losing segments rapidly, it is a sign of severe stress.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in a consistent location with stable temperatures. Stick to a regular watering routine that matches the plant's needs.

Thanksgiving cactus: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your thanksgiving cactus and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I replant the fallen segments?: Yes, you can often root healthy segments in moist soil. Place them in a small pot and keep them in bright, indirect light.
Does low light cause leaf drop?: Yes, if the plant does not get enough light, it may drop segments to survive. Move it to a brighter spot with indirect light.

Why is my Thanksgiving cactus dropping its leaves?