Will the leaves grow back?

The plant will likely grow new leaves once the stress is removed. It may take a few weeks to recover.

Is leaf drop a sign of pests?

Sometimes aphids can cause enough stress to lead to leaf drop. Check the undersides of the leaves for small insects.

Why is my Scarlet sage dropping its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil to see if it is completely dried out.
Look for any nearby air vents that might be blowing hot or cold air.
Inspect the stems for any signs of aphids or other pests.

Likely causes

Temperature Stress
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves fall off suddenly after a cold draft or a heat wave. The plant may look otherwise healthy but is shedding foliage to conserve energy.
What to do: Move the plant to a stable environment away from AC vents or radiators. Keep it in a spot that stays between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Severe Drought
Possible
How to tell: The plant wilts significantly and then begins dropping leaves to survive. The soil will be completely parched.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough soak immediately. Resume your regular watering schedule once the soil feels moist again.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your scarlet sage

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 leaves dropping after you bring a new plant home is normal as it adjusts. Worry if the plant is losing a large amount of foliage all at once.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your sage in a stable, bright spot and monitor the soil moisture closely during hot weather.

Scarlet sage: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your scarlet sage 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.

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Questions people ask

Will the leaves grow back?: The plant will likely grow new leaves once the stress is removed. It may take a few weeks to recover.
Is leaf drop a sign of pests?: Sometimes aphids can cause enough stress to lead to leaf drop. Check the undersides of the leaves for small insects.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Scarlet sage dropping its leaves?