If the Madagascar palm loses all its leaves, there is no cause for concern. This is a natural process. The leaves will sprout again next year. If it drops individual leaves, you should investigate the causes.
Why does the Madagascar palm lose leaves?
The Madagascar palm naturally loses its leaves at the end of the growth phase and sprouts again the next year. If individual leaves fall off, too much moisture or pest infestation may be the cause.
Why does the Madagascar palm lose its leaves?
At the end of the growth phase, the Madagascar palm sheds its leaves. This process is not a disease. Since leaf loss has a natural cause, you don't have to worry about your plant.
You can be sure that the leaves will sprout again at the beginning of the next growing season.
Identifying the growth phase of Madagascar palms
Most houseplants have their main growing season from spring to autumn and take a break from growth in winter. The situation is similar with many Madagascar palms. However, it also happens that the growth phases are postponed.
The growth phase ends when the Madagascar palm sheds its leaves. This can happen in summer or in the middle of winter. The new growth period begins with the new leaf shoots.
It is important to know about these processes when caring for the Madagascar palm. The plant may no longer be fertilized during the rest period. It is then watered much less. Just give it sips of fresh water to keep the root ball just moist.
When individual leaves change color or fall off
If individual leaves change color during the growth phase or if the plant sheds individual leaves, you should investigate the cause.
Sometimes leaves drop or become discolored because the plant is kept too moist. Water less and do not leave water in the saucer or planter.
Another reason for leaf loss can be a pest infestation by scale insects. They suck the liquid out of the leaves and cause them to wither. You should treat an infestation immediately so that the Madagascar palm does not die.
Never leave fallen leaves lying around
Since Madagascar palms are poisonous, you should never leave fallen leaves lying around. There is a particular risk of poisoning for small children and pets.
Tip
Since Madagascar palms lose their leaves after the growth phase anyway, you can overwinter the succulent in the dark if necessary. The winter location just needs to be quite warm.
