What to Do When a Money Tree Loses Its Leaves? Causes and Solutions
The money tree (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a very endearing plant, not only because its name carries an auspicious meaning, but also because its leaf shape and color are themselves of ornamental value. As people's living standards improve, more and more people are starting to grow green plants at home for their beauty, and the money tree has become one of them. But as a foliage plant, if it loses its leaves severely, its ornamental value is greatly reduced. So what should we do when a money tree loses its leaves?
I. Causes of Leaf Loss in Money Trees
To find a solution to leaf loss in money trees, we first need to find the causes. Qinnong Web has summarized three points here for everyone; let's take a look below.
1. Overwatering
If you water the money tree too much each time and the water cannot drain away in time, water will accumulate in the soil. This causes the root system to have difficulty breathing, leading to root rot, and consequently the leaves fall off.
2. Environmental Influence
Usually the money trees we grow are kept indoors in pots. If the indoor temperature is unstable due to air conditioning or heating, fluctuating between hot and cold, or if the plant is placed in a dimly lit spot for a long time, this can also cause the leaves to fall off.
3. Pests and Diseases
This is the hardest point to control, because we cannot control the occurrence of pests and diseases and can only adopt corresponding prevention and control measures. If a money tree is attacked by pests or diseases, its leaves will turn yellow, become soft, and eventually fall off or even die.
II. Solutions for Leaf Loss in Money Trees
1. Watering Method
Water the money tree according to the principle of not watering until the soil is dry; keeping the soil somewhat moist is enough. Never let water accumulate.
2. Temperature Control
The most suitable growing temperature for the money tree is between 20°C and 32°C. If the winter temperature is too low, you need to take certain measures to keep it warm. If it is kept indoors in an air-conditioned or heated room, you must ensure the temperature stays stable, and at the lowest it should remain above 10°C.
3. Light
Place the money tree in a spot with relatively sufficient light, but also be careful not to let it be exposed to scorching sun. In summer, shade it properly; in winter, it needs more light.
4. Pest and Disease Control
Pests and diseases cannot be eradicated, only prevented and controlled. When pests or diseases are discovered, promptly remove the diseased leaves to prevent the virus from spreading among the leaves. In addition, spraying pesticide is needed for control, which gives the best results.
The above is what Qinnong Web has introduced regarding the causes of and solutions for leaf loss in money trees. In fact, if you look carefully, you will find that the solutions correspond to the causes, so when you encounter leaf loss in a money tree, you should first find the cause and then take measures; do not apply them blindly.