What Happens When a Fortune Tree Loses Leaves
As a star candidate in the indoor green plant world, the fortune tree is loved for its sturdy trunk and glossy leaves. However, when the leaves begin to fall, many plant enthusiasts become at a loss. Actually, as long as the cause is identified and the correct rescue method is mastered, the fortune tree can regain its vitality. This article will systematically analyze four common causes and corresponding solutions.
One: Overwatering Causes Root Rot
Symptom Identification
The soil remains moist for a long time, the leaves appear wilted as if waterlogged, and the base of the petioles becomes soft. Inspection of the roots reveals brown and腐烂 white rootlets, accompanied by a sour smell.
Emergency Measures
Immediately remove the pot and rinse the roots, trim to healthy tissue with a sterile scissor. Apply carbendazim powder to the cuts and let it dry in a well-ventilated area for 3 hours. Replace with a breathable substrate (perlite: decomposed leaf soil = 3:7), keeping the soil slightly moist for the first three days.
Prevention Tips
Water thoroughly every 7-10 days in spring and autumn, observe the dryness of the potting soil every 5 days in summer, and water sparingly every 15-20 days in winter. Using a pot with ceramic beads at the bottom is better.
Two: Sudden Temperature Drop Causes Frostbite
Typical Symptoms
The leaf edges become dry and curl, with transparent spots appearing between the veins. When the nighttime temperature remains below 10°C, the entire plant will enter a dormant state.
Rescue Plan
Gradually move to an environment of 18-25°C, avoiding sudden temperature increases. Use warm water at 25°C to spray and increase humidity, supplement with chelated iron foliar fertilizer once a week. Maintain 4 hours of scattered light exposure daily.
Overwintering Tips
In the northern regions, move the plant indoors before the first frost, and in the south, avoid placing it near windows and doorways. You can wrap the main stem with non-woven fabric and place foam board under the pot to insulate from the cold.
Three: Improper Fertilization Burns Roots
Abnormal Features
New leaves are malformed and curled, and old leaves have brown edges. There are white salt and alkali crystals on the soil surface, and the soil becomes sticky when watered.
Emergency Treatment
Water with clear water for three consecutive days, each time with twice the volume of the pot. Trim 1/3 of the dense branches and leaves to reduce consumption, and pause fertilization for 2 months. Use HB101 root activator during the recovery period.
Scientific Fertilization
Apply a diluted leaf plant nutrient solution once a month during the growing season. Stop fertilizing in winter and add 5% sheep manure granules as a base fertilizer when repotting.
Four: Other Potential Causes
Light Imbalance
Long-term darkness causes the leaves to fade and fall, and sudden exposure to strong sunlight causes sunburn spots. It is recommended to maintain a light intensity of 20000-30000Lux.
Pest and Disease Invasion
Leaf areas infested with scale insects become sticky, and red spider mites create webbing on the underside of leaves. Use alcohol wipes for physical removal, and spray with Shiqi Hongsha suite in severe cases.
By systematically checking the details of maintenance, more than 80% of leaf drop issues can be solved. It is recommended to conduct a comprehensive check every month: gently shake the trunk to observe stability, flip the leaves to check the back, and use fingers to detect soil moisture 3cm deep. Only by establishing a scientific maintenance system can the fortune tree truly become a feng shui tree that brings wealth and fortune.