Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?

No, avoid fertilizing until the plant has recovered. Adding nutrients to a stressed plant can cause further damage.

Will the leaves grow back?

Yes, if the cause is addressed, the plant will produce new foliage during the next growth cycle. Focus on stabilizing the environment.

Siebold's elderberry: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Inspect the undersides of leaves for pests.
Look for signs of wilting in the stems.

Likely causes

Drought stress
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves become brittle, curl at the edges, and fall off while still green or slightly yellowed.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until water drains from the bottom. Maintain a consistent schedule of watering every 3 to 7 days when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Sudden temperature change
Possible
How to tell: Leaves drop rapidly after a cold snap or a sudden move to a much hotter location.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with more stable temperatures. Protect it from direct drafts or intense heat sources.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your siebold's elderberry

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

It is normal for a few older leaves to drop in late autumn as the plant prepares for dormancy. Worry if the leaf drop is sudden and involves healthy looking foliage.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently moist and avoid moving the plant to drastically different light or temperature conditions.

Siebold's elderberry: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your siebold's elderberry 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 has recovered. Adding nutrients to a stressed plant can cause further damage.
Will the leaves grow back?: Yes, if the cause is addressed, the plant will produce new foliage during the next growth cycle. Focus on stabilizing the environment.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Siebold's elderberry losing its leaves?