Will the leaves grow back?

Marigolds generally do not regrow leaves on bare stems. If the plant becomes too leggy, you can prune it back to encourage bushier growth.

Are spider mites common on marigolds?

They can be a problem during hot and dry weather. Keeping the plant healthy and checking it regularly helps keep them away.

Why is my marigold dropping its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the undersides of leaves for tiny mites.
Check if the soil is waterlogged or muddy.
Look for signs of rot at the base of the stem.

Likely causes

Overwatering
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow before falling off and the soil stays wet for a long time.
What to do: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely before watering again. Ensure the pot is not sitting in a saucer of standing water.
Spider Mites
Possible
How to tell: You see fine webbing between the stems and tiny stippling or pale spots on the leaves.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth or use an insecticidal soap. Repeat the treatment every 5 to 7 days until the pests are gone.

Find out what's wrong with your marigold

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 leaves from the bottom up and looks limp, it is likely a watering issue. A few leaves dropping as the plant grows is normal.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your marigold in full sun and avoid getting water on the foliage to prevent both pests and fungal issues.

Keep your marigold healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Will the leaves grow back?: Marigolds generally do not regrow leaves on bare stems. If the plant becomes too leggy, you can prune it back to encourage bushier growth.
Are spider mites common on marigolds?: They can be a problem during hot and dry weather. Keeping the plant healthy and checking it regularly helps keep them away.

Why is my marigold dropping its leaves?