Houseplants: Experts explain why leaves might be falling off
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info
Plants can drop their leaves for a variety of reasons, and they’re not always something to be concerned about. Sometimes a changing of the season can cause your houseplant to drop leaves, especially as light levels and temperatures change. However, even if you’re almost certain there’s nothing wrong with your plant, it’s still best to check.
Plant expert and journalist Alice Vincent explained in a video for Patch plants why your plant’s leaves are falling off.
Alice said some plants drop leaves as a normal part of their lifecycle.
Others shed leaves in winter so they have less foliage to maintain during the lower light levels.
However, the gardening expert said some houseplants “don’t shed at all”.
She said: “But others don’t shed at all, so read up and find out what’s normal for your plant.
“If your plant is dropping more leaves than it should, there could be a few reasons behind it.
“It could be the shock of it being delivered to your cozy home or moved to a new spot.
“A dip in brightness levels can also cause a plant to lose leaves because it needs to be more efficient.
DON’T MISS
‘Raise the mower blades’: Vital winter lawn care instructions [INSIGHT]
Poinsettia care: The three key signs of a pest problem – how to fix [UPDATE]
‘Remain consistent’ when watering Christmas cacti – top tips [ANALYSIS]
“If a plant is outgrowing its pot it might drop leaves because it can’t maintain all the new ones it’s trying to grow, so if you see the roots bubbling up into the surface of the soil or coming out at the bottom of its plastic pots, it might be time to repot it.”
How often houseplants are watered will also have an impact on whether they shed leaves.
Too much or too little water could impact its structure.
Alice added: “Both under watering and over watering can cause leaves to fall off too because too much or too little moisture affects the structure of a plant.
Looking for a new home, or just fancy a look? Add your postcode below or visit InYourArea
“If the leaves are yellowing and mushy, especially if it starts at the bottom of the plant, then you’re definitely over watering and if they’re dry and curling then it hasn’t had enough water.”
Make sure to read up about a houseplant before buying one as this will tell you whether it is likely to drop leaves.
Houseplants need light, water, warmth and nutrition but they all need slightly different care.
Ficus trees, which are popular, will drop leaves as soon as they move.
While other houseplants will grow anywhere without any issues.
Pests like scale insects and spider mites can also have an impact on whether leaves drop.
These can be removed with insecticidal soaps or even washing up liquid and water.
Some plants and shrubs naturally lose leaves and are known as deciduous.
Find out more from Patch Plants here
Source: Read Full Article