Will my plant grow new leaves where they fell off?

Usually, the stem will remain bare where leaves have dropped. The plant will focus its energy on growing new leaves at the top.

Can I save a plant that has lost most of its leaves?

If the stem is still firm and green, move it to better light and keep watering it. It may take a few weeks to show signs of recovery.

Slender amaranth: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Move the plant to a brighter spot.
Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Inspect the undersides of leaves for pests.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Possible
How to tell: The plant looks stretched out, and the lower leaves turn yellow before falling off. This happens when the plant is kept in a shady spot.
What to do: Move your pot to a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. If you are growing indoors, place it in a south facing window or use a strong grow light.
Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves feel dry and crispy before they drop, and the soil pulls away from the edges of the pot. The entire plant may look wilted.
What to do: Check the soil moisture every 2 days. Water thoroughly until liquid drains from the bottom of the pot whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your slender amaranth

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

It is normal for the very oldest bottom leaves to drop as the plant grows taller. Worry if you see rapid leaf loss across the entire plant.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant in full sun and maintain a consistent watering schedule so the soil never stays bone dry for long.

Slender amaranth: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your slender amaranth 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.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will my plant grow new leaves where they fell off?: Usually, the stem will remain bare where leaves have dropped. The plant will focus its energy on growing new leaves at the top.
Can I save a plant that has lost most of its leaves?: If the stem is still firm and green, move it to better light and keep watering it. It may take a few weeks to show signs of recovery.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my slender amaranth losing its leaves?