Can pests cause leaf drop?

Yes, aphids and whiteflies feed on sap and can cause leaves to yellow and fall off. Check the undersides of leaves for these small pests.

Should I fertilize a plant losing leaves?

No, wait until the plant stabilizes. Fertilizing a stressed plant can cause more harm than good.

Why is my hibiscus losing its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil is soggy or waterlogged.
Look for tiny insects like aphids or whiteflies on the undersides of leaves.
Assess if the plant was recently moved to a new spot.

Likely causes

Sudden Temperature Change
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves turn yellow and fall off shortly after a cold snap or moving the plant indoors.
What to do: Keep the plant in a stable location above 50 degrees. Avoid placing it near drafty windows or air conditioning vents.
Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and drop while the soil remains soggy for days.
What to do: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely before watering again. Ensure your pot has excellent drainage holes.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your tropical hibiscus

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

If the plant is losing more than a few leaves a week, it is a sign of significant stress. It is normal for a few older leaves to yellow and drop occasionally.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in a consistent, warm, and sunny spot away from drafts.

Tropical Hibiscus: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your tropical hibiscus 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

Can pests cause leaf drop?: Yes, aphids and whiteflies feed on sap and can cause leaves to yellow and fall off. Check the undersides of leaves for these small pests.
Should I fertilize a plant losing leaves?: No, wait until the plant stabilizes. Fertilizing a stressed plant can cause more harm than good.

Why is my hibiscus losing its leaves?