Croton Shock After Repotting: Undo It Immediately

Classic Mistake

Repotting a new croton (Codiaeum variegatum) is the #1 cause of sudden leaf drop. Roots are fragile; added soil stays wet.

If You Only Added Soil Around Rootball

1. Remove all added soil.
2. Return plant to its original nursery pot.
3. Place nursery pot in decorative cachepot with Spanish moss.

If You Disturbed the Rootball

Recovery is uncertain. Return to original pot anyway, keep conditions optimal (sunny sill, water when surface dry), and wait.

Future Rule

Never repot a new plant for 3–6 months. Let it acclimate first.