Will my plant grow its leaves back?

Yes, if the roots remain healthy, the plant will push out new growth once the stress is removed. Keep watering it regularly to help it recover.

Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?

No, avoid fertilizing a stressed plant. Wait until it shows signs of new, healthy growth before adding any nutrients.

Why is my Spiraea alba dropping its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is bone dry.
Inspect the undersides of leaves for signs of pests.
Check if the plant has been moved to a much hotter location recently.

Likely causes

Drought stress
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves will feel dry or brittle before falling off. You might notice the soil pulling away from the edges of the pot or the ground.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until the soil is moist 6 to 8 inches down. Apply a 2 inch layer of mulch around the base to help hold that moisture in.
Heat stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves may wilt during the hottest part of the day and drop if the heat persists for several days. This often happens during mid summer heat waves.
What to do: Provide temporary shade during the afternoon hours using a cloth or screen. Ensure the plant receives consistent water every 5 to 10 days during these periods.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your white meadowsweet

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 loses more than half its foliage in a few days, it is likely in severe distress. A few leaves dropping during a heat wave is normal.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently moist by watering every 5 to 10 days and using mulch to retain water.

White meadowsweet: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your white meadowsweet 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

Will my plant grow its leaves back?: Yes, if the roots remain healthy, the plant will push out new growth once the stress is removed. Keep watering it regularly to help it recover.
Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?: No, avoid fertilizing a stressed plant. Wait until it shows signs of new, healthy growth before adding any nutrients.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my Spiraea alba dropping its leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your white meadowsweet?