Plant lovers are heartbroken when they see their Schefflera, once such a patient and robust roommate, losing its leaves. If more than two leaves fall off per day, this is no longer normal. But what's going on?
Why does a Schefflera lose leaves and what can you do about it?
If a Schefflera loses more leaves, this is usually due to temperatures that are too low, the substrate is too moist, a location that is too dark, annoying drafts or diseases. To counteract this, the location and care should be optimized.
Reasons why Schefflera loses leaves
Normally, radiation aralias are resilient and cannot be brought down so quickly. But if the grievances persist, they too soon admit defeat and drop their leaves. The main reasons for leaf loss are:
- Temperatures below 10 °C
- too moist substrate
- location too dark
- disturbing drafts at the location
- existing diseases
Quick action is required - otherwise there is a risk of ruin
If you don't act quickly now, the end of the Schefflera may be near. It usually cannot regenerate on its own if there are errors in care or if it is in the wrong location. Therefore, check the location and care and examine the foliage to see whether there are any pests or fungal foci on it!
Prevent abnormal leaf loss
But how do you prevent this? Simply by making everything the best:
- place in a warm and bright location
- do not place near open doors and windows
- do not expose to direct sun
- overwinter moderately warm
- do not over-fertilize
- water evenly and ensure good water drainage
Leaf loss is usually preceded by unusual discoloration of the leaves. At first the leaves turn yellowish, then sometimes brown, until they finally fall off. You should act quickly if you see signs like this!
Don't worry if leaves fall off every now and then
Every Schefflera loses leaves over time. After a few years, it looks bare, especially in the lower trunk area. The leaves are only visible at the top. But that's completely normal.
Tip
The most common reasons why the leaves of the ray aralia fall off are that temperatures that are too low and the soil is too wet.