How often should I water?

Every 7 to 14 days is typical, but always check the soil first. It should be moist but not soggy.

Not necessarily, but it is telling you the environment is not right. Adjust your care and it should recover.

Japanese skimmia: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture two inches down with your finger.
Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.
Check the location for excessive afternoon sun.

Likely causes

Waterlogged Soil
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves turn yellow or brown and fall off while the soil feels soggy.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and ensure the pot has drainage holes. If the soil is heavy, repot into a mix with more perlite or bark for better aeration.
Drought Stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves become brittle, curl, and drop off during hot, dry spells.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until water runs out the bottom. Maintain a consistent schedule of watering every 7 to 14 days.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your japanese skimmia

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 is losing a large amount of foliage suddenly, it is in distress. A few leaves dropping in late spring is normal as the plant replaces old growth.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistent soil moisture and provide shade during the hottest part of the day.

Japanese skimmia: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your japanese skimmia 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

How often should I water?: Every 7 to 14 days is typical, but always check the soil first. It should be moist but not soggy.
Is my plant dying?: Not necessarily, but it is telling you the environment is not right. Adjust your care and it should recover.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Japanese skimmia losing its leaves?