Why is my Mother of Thyme losing its leaves?

Check these first

1. Measure the amount of direct sunlight the plant receives.
2. Check for signs of pests on the undersides of the leaves.
3. Ensure the plant has enough space for air to move around it.

Likely causes

1. Insufficient light

   Most likely

   How to tell: The plant looks leggy and the lower leaves turn yellow before falling off. This happens when the plant is kept in a spot that is too shady.

   What to do: Move the plant to a location that receives full, direct sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. Prune back any long, leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.

2. Poor air circulation

   Possible

   How to tell: The leaves drop off in the center of the plant where the foliage is densest. This is often caused by high humidity or stagnant air around the base.

   What to do: Place the plant in a spot with better airflow, such as near an open window or outdoors. Avoid overcrowding it with other plants to keep the foliage dry.

Leaf drop in other plants

When to worry

Worry if the plant is losing leaves rapidly or if the stems are becoming bare. It is normal for a few older leaves to drop occasionally as the plant grows.

Stopping it coming back

Provide plenty of direct sunlight and ensure the plant is not in a cramped, humid corner.

Questions people ask

Is it normal for my thyme to lose leaves in winter?

If your plant is kept indoors, it may drop some leaves due to lower light levels during winter. Try to keep it in your brightest window.

Can pests cause leaf drop?

While rare, spider mites can cause leaf drop. Check the undersides of leaves for tiny webs if you notice sudden shedding.

More problems with Mother of Thyme

• Why is my Mother of Thyme rotting at the base?
• Why is my Mother of Thyme growing long and leggy?
• Why are the leaves on my Mother of Thyme turning yellow?
• Why are my Mother of Thyme leaves getting brown tips?
• Why is my Mother of Thyme drooping?
• Why is my Mother of Thyme not flowering?