Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?

No, avoid fertilizing until the plant recovers. Adding nutrients to a stressed plant can cause more harm.

Will the leaves grow back?

The plant will likely produce new growth once the stressor is removed. Be patient as it recovers.

Common hedgenettle: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the top inch of soil for dryness.
Check the location for excessive heat or sun exposure.

Likely causes

Severe drought
Most likely
How to tell: The soil feels bone dry and the leaves look crispy or brittle before falling off.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes. Resume your normal schedule of checking the top inch of soil every 5 to 7 days.
Heat stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves drop during a heatwave or if the plant is placed in a spot that gets too hot.
What to do: Move the plant to a cooler location with better airflow. Ensure it stays out of direct, scorching afternoon sun.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common hedgenettle

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

A few old leaves falling is normal, but losing many leaves at once indicates a serious environmental issue.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistent moisture and avoid placing the plant in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.

Common hedgenettle: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common hedgenettle 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

Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?: No, avoid fertilizing until the plant recovers. Adding nutrients to a stressed plant can cause more harm.
Will the leaves grow back?: The plant will likely produce new growth once the stressor is removed. Be patient as it recovers.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Betonica officinalis losing its leaves?