Will my plant grow back if it loses all its leaves?

If the stem remains firm and green, it can often regrow new foliage. If the stem turns black or mushy, the plant is likely beyond recovery.

Does water temperature affect leaf drop?

Yes, extreme temperature fluctuations can stress the plant. Keep the water temperature stable between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Eurasian watermilfoil: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the light levels reaching the plant.
Test the water pH and nutrient levels.
Inspect the stems for signs of decay.

Likely causes

Low Light
Possible
How to tell: The stems look stretched and thin while the feathery leaves fall off toward the bottom of the plant. This happens when the plant is shaded by other vegetation or placed in a dim corner.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with full sun or bright indirect light. If you are growing it indoors, ensure it gets at least 8 to 10 hours of light daily.
Water Chemistry Imbalance
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn pale or brown before detaching from the stem. This is often caused by a sudden change in pH or a lack of dissolved carbon dioxide in the water.
What to do: Test your water for pH and nutrient levels. Perform a partial water change of 20 to 30 percent to refresh the mineral content.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your eurasian watermilfoil

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 entire stem turns mushy or if the plant stops growing new whorls at the tips. It is normal for a few older leaves to shed as the plant adjusts to a new environment.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistent light levels and keep the water clean to prevent stress.

Eurasian watermilfoil: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your eurasian watermilfoil 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 back if it loses all its leaves?: If the stem remains firm and green, it can often regrow new foliage. If the stem turns black or mushy, the plant is likely beyond recovery.
Does water temperature affect leaf drop?: Yes, extreme temperature fluctuations can stress the plant. Keep the water temperature stable between 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Why is my Eurasian watermilfoil losing its leaves?