Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?

No, avoid fertilizing until the plant shows signs of recovery. Adding nutrients to a stressed plant can burn the roots.

Can pests cause leaf drop?

Yes, heavy infestations of flea beetles can weaken the plant enough to cause leaf loss. Inspect your leaves for tiny holes.

Black henbane: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Inspect the base of the stem for signs of rot.
Look for pests on the undersides of the leaves.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Possible
How to tell: The lower leaves turn yellow and mushy before falling off. The soil stays wet for more than 10 days.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and let the top 2 inches of soil dry out. Ensure your pot has drainage holes so excess water can escape.
Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: Leaves feel crispy and dry before they drop. The soil pulls away from the edges of the pot.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until liquid runs out of the bottom. Maintain a schedule of checking the soil every 5 to 7 days.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your black henbane

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 loses more than half its foliage in a week, it is likely in distress. It is normal for the oldest bottom leaves to yellow and drop as the plant matures.

Stopping it coming back

Keep a consistent watering schedule and ensure the soil has excellent drainage.

Black henbane: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your black henbane 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 shows signs of recovery. Adding nutrients to a stressed plant can burn the roots.
Can pests cause leaf drop?: Yes, heavy infestations of flea beetles can weaken the plant enough to cause leaf loss. Inspect your leaves for tiny holes.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my black henbane dropping its leaves?