Will the leaves grow back on bare stems?

Usually, the plant will not regrow leaves on the bare sections of the stem. You can prune the stem back to encourage new, bushy growth.

How do I know if it is fungus or just dry?

Fungal issues usually show distinct spots or patches, while dehydration causes the leaves to dry out uniformly from the tips or edges.

Redroot pigweed: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture level.
Inspect the undersides of the leaves for spots.
Look for signs of pests or wilting.

Likely causes

Severe Dehydration
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or crispy before falling off the stem. The soil will be very dry and pulled away from the edges of the pot.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough watering until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Resume a regular schedule of watering every 3 to 7 days to keep the soil moist.
Fungal Infection
Possible
How to tell: This is less common for this plant, but high humidity can lead to dark spots that cause leaves to drop prematurely. Look for irregular dark patches on the foliage.
What to do: Remove the affected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves when you water.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your redroot pigweed

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Worry if the plant is dropping many leaves at once or if the stems are turning mushy. It is normal for the oldest bottom leaves to drop as the plant matures.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently moist and ensure good airflow to prevent fungal issues.

Redroot pigweed: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your redroot pigweed and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

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Questions people ask

Will the leaves grow back on bare stems?: Usually, the plant will not regrow leaves on the bare sections of the stem. You can prune the stem back to encourage new, bushy growth.
How do I know if it is fungus or just dry?: Fungal issues usually show distinct spots or patches, while dehydration causes the leaves to dry out uniformly from the tips or edges.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my redroot pigweed dropping its leaves?