Croton Decline from Overwatering

Alisa's croton on a humid Niagara Falls porch has drooping new leaves despite recent watering.

Diagnosis

Chronic overwatering rotted the roots, so they can't uptake water—hence continued drooping. Crotons need to dry thoroughly between waterings and full sun for color.

Immediate Actions

• Stop watering; let soil dry completely.
• Ensure pot has drainage holes and tray; empty tray 1 hour after any watering.
• Move to full sun to aid recovery.

Lesson

More plants die from too much water than too little. If this one doesn't recover, replace and apply the corrected regimen.