Poinsettia Dropping Leaves: Causes plus Fixes
A poinsettia dropping leaves is usually reacting to temperature or water. Clemson Extension notes chilling below 50 degrees F can cause early leaf drop. It notes excess heat makes leaves yellow plus fall off. University of Maryland Extension notes drafts near vents, doors or windows can cause leaf plus flower drop.
The short answer
Move the plant away from cold windows, doors, heat vents plus fireplaces. Hold daytime temperatures between 60 plus 70 degrees F. Give at least 6 hours of bright, indirect light. Water thoroughly when the soil surface feels dry. Never let it sit in standing water or dry out completely.
What temperatures do poinsettias need?
University of Maryland Extension notes poinsettias prefer daytime room temperatures between 60 plus 70 degrees F, with nights in the mid fifties. Clemson Extension notes daytime temperatures should not exceed 70 degrees F. Chilling below 50 degrees F can cause early leaf drop. Cover the plant when bringing it home in cold weather.
| Cause | Sign | Fix | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold drafts | Leaf plus flower drop | Move away from doors plus cold windows | Maryland plus Clemson |
| Excess heat | Leaves yellow plus fall | Hold days at 70 degrees F or below | Clemson |
| Too much water | Wilting in wet soil | Empty the saucer plus open the foil | Maryland plus Illinois |
| Dry soil | Wilting | Water when the surface feels dry | Clemson plus UF/IFAS |
| Low light | Weak plant | Give 6 hours of bright, indirect light | Clemson |
Source: Clemson Extension, University of Maryland Extension, Illinois Extension plus UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions.
How should a poinsettia be watered?
Clemson Extension notes poinsettias require moderately moist soil. Water thoroughly when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. Never let the mix dry out completely or sit in standing water. University of Maryland Extension advises poking holes in decorative foil so excess water drains. It notes too much water can drown roots.
How much light does a poinsettia need?
Clemson Extension advises a bright spot with at least 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight each day. Direct sun may dull the bracts. University of Maryland Extension suggests bright natural light from a south, east or west window, without direct sun. UF/IFAS notes direct sun or hot lights can parch the plants.
How to: step by step
- Cover the plant on the trip home when it is below 50 degrees F outside.
- Remove or poke holes in decorative foil.
- Set it in bright, indirect light for at least 6 hours a day.
- Place it away from vents, doors, fireplaces plus cold windows.
- Soak the soil once the surface feels dry.
- Empty the saucer after watering.
Troubleshooting
Leaf drop near a door or window: cold drafts. Move the plant to a stable spot.
Yellow leaves near a heat source: excess heat. Move it away from vents plus fireplaces.
Wilting in wet soil: possible root rot. Illinois Extension notes this pattern can point to it.
For related reading see overwatering and cannabis growth, underwatering cannabis plus frost damage on cannabis. Kind Seed Co also stocks cannabis seeds.
Sources
- Poinsettia, Illinois Extension
- Poinsettia, Clemson Extension
- Poinsettias, University of Maryland Extension
- Poinsettia, UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions
FAQ
Why is my new poinsettia losing leaves?
Cold on the way home is a common trigger. Illinois Extension advises having the plant sleeved or covered when outdoor temperatures are below 50 degrees F. Clemson Extension notes chilling below 50 degrees F can cause early leaf drop. Indoors, place it away from drafts plus heat sources.
How do I pick a poinsettia that holds its leaves?
Illinois Extension advises against plants with fallen or yellowed leaves, or plants that droop or wilt. Clemson Extension suggests stiff stems, good bract plus leaf retention plus no wilting. Choose plants with the small yellow flowers in the center not quite open, since the bloom holds longer.
Should a poinsettia sit in its foil wrap?
Not with water trapped inside. University of Maryland Extension advises removing or poking holes in decorative foil or plastic so excess water drains out. It notes too much water can drown roots. UF/IFAS advises draining the saucer if water starts to collect in it.
Does humidity matter for poinsettias?
It helps. UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions notes slightly humid air helps prolong the color plus life span of the plant. It suggests misting the plant or setting it on a gravel tray. Clemson Extension advises placing it away from dry air from appliances, fireplaces or ducts.
How long can a poinsettia hold its color?
UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions notes poinsettias can hold their color until March if they are not exposed to freezing temperatures. Bright light, steady temperatures plus careful watering help. University of Maryland Extension notes room temperatures between 60 plus 70 degrees F during the day suit the plant.
