Can I use neem oil for pests?

Yes, neem oil is effective for mealybugs. Spray it on the leaves, making sure to get into the crevices, but keep the plant out of direct sun while the oil dries.

Will the leaves grow back where they fell off?

No, the stems will remain bare where the leaves dropped. You can prune the stem back to encourage the plant to branch out and look fuller.

Why is my baby rubber plant losing leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for white, fuzzy spots.
Check if the plant is near a drafty window or a heater.
Verify that you are not overwatering.

Likely causes

Mealybugs
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, white, cottony patches in the leaf joints or under the leaves. These pests suck the sap and cause the plant to drop leaves as it weakens.
What to do: Wipe the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the bugs. Repeat this every week until you no longer see any signs of the insects.
Temperature Shock
Possible
How to tell: It is less common for this plant to drop leaves from temperature, but it happens when the plant is placed near a heater or a freezing window. The leaves will drop suddenly while still looking green.
What to do: Move the plant to a stable environment away from direct heat sources or cold drafts. Ensure the room temperature stays consistent throughout the day.

Find out what's wrong with your baby rubber plant

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

Losing a few old leaves at the base is normal as the plant grows. Losing multiple leaves at once is a sign of a pest infestation or severe root stress.

Stopping it coming back

Check your plant for pests every time you water it and keep it away from extreme temperature fluctuations.

Keep your baby rubber plant healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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

Questions people ask

Can I use neem oil for pests?: Yes, neem oil is effective for mealybugs. Spray it on the leaves, making sure to get into the crevices, but keep the plant out of direct sun while the oil dries.
Will the leaves grow back where they fell off?: No, the stems will remain bare where the leaves dropped. You can prune the stem back to encourage the plant to branch out and look fuller.

Why is my baby rubber plant losing leaves?