What Causes Jade Tree Leaves to Fall Off
As a beloved succulent plant, the Jade Tree has plump, unique leaves, but it often encounters the problem of leaf dropping during maintenance. This article systematically sorts out 4 common causes and corresponding solutions to help plant enthusiasts accurately care for their plants through scientific diagnosis.
Deep Analysis of the Four Major Causes of Jade Tree Leaf Drop
Imbalance in Water Management
Data shows that 70% of leaf drop issues stem from improper watering. Excess water leads to root suffocation, initially causing the bottom leaves to soften and fall off, while continuous waterlogging can trigger black rot disease. It is recommended to use the "soak pot" method to water, thoroughly watering every 15 days in summer and extending to 30 days in winter, complemented by the bamboo stake method to determine soil moisture.
Sharp Fluctuations in Temperature
The optimal growth temperature for the Jade Tree is 15-28°C, and temperatures below 5°C trigger protective leaf drop. Areas in the north need to pay special attention to temperature control before and after heating. It is suggested to place foam insulation boards on the windowsill and use transparent plastic bags at night to create a mini greenhouse.
Deterioration of Soil Environment
Compacted soil has less than 40% of the normal matrix's breathability. It is recommended to replace the soil with a special succulent mix containing perlite and vermiculite every 2 years. Regularly applying diatomaceous earth can prevent soil-borne pests like root mealybugs and maintain a slightly acidic soil environment (pH 6.0-6.5).
Double Assault of Diseases and Pests
Spider mites cause tiny dot-like spots on the leaf backs in the early stages, which can be wiped off with 75% alcohol cotton pads. Preventive sprays with neem oil before the peak period of scale insects are recommended, and infected plants should be isolated and treated with thiamethoxam. (T-J) disease shows brown spots on the leaf edges, and the affected leaves should be removed and sprayed with mancozeb.
Implementation of a Systematic Management Plan
Establish a three-level management system of "environmental monitoring - symptomatic treatment - preventive care": purchase a soil moisture meter for real-time monitoring, stop watering immediately when leaf drop is noticed and check the roots, trim the rotten parts, soak in carbendazim solution for 2 days, and then replant with new soil. For daily maintenance, a calcium and magnesium element water-soluble fertilizer can be supplemented monthly to enhance the plant's resistance.
By improving watering methods, optimizing cultivation substrates, establishing pest and disease warning mechanisms, and adjusting seasonal maintenance, the leaf drop rate of the Jade Tree can be effectively reduced by over 85%. It is recommended to keep a maintenance log to record temperature and humidity changes, gradually mastering the plant's growth patterns to keep the Jade Tree green throughout the year.