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Wild potato · Solanum etuberosum

Why is my Solanum etuberosum dropping leaves?

It is less common for this plant to lose leaves, so this usually happens due to sudden changes in its environment or temperature. Check the location of your plant first to see if it is sitting in a draft or too close to a heat vent.

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Check these first

  1. Feel the soil to see if it is completely dry or waterlogged.
  2. Check the area around the plant for cold drafts or heat sources.
  3. Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny pests like aphids.

Likely causes

  1. Temperature Shock

    Most likely

    How to tell: Leaves may turn yellow or brown before falling off suddenly. This often happens after moving the plant to a new spot.

    What to do: Keep your plant in a stable location away from cold windows or hot air vents. Maintain a consistent room temperature between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

  2. Inconsistent Watering

    Possible

    How to tell: The soil feels bone dry or constantly soggy. Leaves drop when the plant cannot maintain its hydration levels.

    What to do: Check the top inch of soil every 3 to 7 days. Water thoroughly until liquid drains from the bottom, then empty the saucer.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your wild potato

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.

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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 more than a few leaves at once or if the stems look shriveled.

Stopping it coming back

Provide consistent light and keep the plant away from extreme temperature fluctuations.

Wild potato: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wild potato 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 my plant grow new leaves?
Yes, once the stressor is removed, the plant will eventually push out new growth. Be patient and keep up with regular care.
Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?
No, wait until the plant shows signs of recovery before adding fertilizer. Adding nutrients to a stressed plant can cause more harm.

More problems with Wild potato

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This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.