Lemon Plant Losing Leaves, Stem Drying: Critical Light Deficiency

A lemon plant in Lahore, Pakistan, receives only 30 minutes of indirect sunlight daily. Leaves are falling, and the upper stem is drying and turning brown.

Diagnosis: Severe Light Starvation

Citrus requires full sun (6–8+ hours direct). Indoor indirect light is insufficient for photosynthesis, causing leaf drop and stem dieback.

Rescue Plan

1. Move outdoors immediately to full sun.
2. Water thoroughly, then remove excess from saucer—never let sit in water.
3. Prune dead stems back to live tissue.
4. Expect new growth in weeks if caught in time.

Long-Term Care

If outdoor placement isn't possible, a high-output grow lamp is essential. Lemon trees cannot thrive as low-light houseplants.

Expert insight provided by Melissa.