Leaf Drop

Leaf drop is a type of abscission. It can be a normal part of a plant’s life, or it can be a clue to a problem.
 
As plants age, they often lose older leaves. That’s normal.
 
As days shorten and temperatures drop, deciduous plants break down the chlorophyll in their leaves before dropping them. That’s normal, too.
 
But sometimes leaf drop is a plant’s way of telling us something is wrong. Below is a list of the most common causes of abnormal leaf drop:

• Collision damage—high-traffic areas can be hard on plants
• Improper humidity or watering—too much or too little
• Inadequate or sudden changes in light levels (light shock)
• Nutrient deficiencies--iron, magnesium, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, zinc
• Pest infestations--mealybugs, scale insects, spider mites
• Temperature—drafts, sudden changes, too cold or too hot
• Transplant shock--dividing, repotting, relocating

 
The best way to keep your plants healthy is to start with species suited to your microclimate and USDA Plant Hardiness Zone. Then, place them where they will get the sun exposure (and any wind or traffic protection) they need.
 
Monitor your plants regularly for signs of pests or disease. It’s a lot easier to nip problems in the proverbial bud if they are caught early. And get your soil tested every few years. It’s the only way to see what your plants have on their menu.
 
The Number One cause of abnormal leaf drop is water.
 
Too much water can drown your plants. It can also make them more susceptible to pests and diseases, and generally make them miserable. Leaf drop is a symptom of too much (or too little) water.
 
Give your plants the water they need, and no more.
 
An inexpensive moisture meter can help you prevent overwatering. The easiest rule of thumb for most containerized plants is to wait until the soil starts pulling away from the edges of the pot before watering.
 
If leaves are falling off your plant at the wrong time of year, use these clues to help you find out why. Once you know the cause, you can find a solution to your plant’s problem.