Question
Hi, I have several huge crotons (3 stem 2'-3' plants) that I leave outside all summer (central ontario,canada) on a north facing deck. When I bring them in in the fall they always lose leaves. I put them in a bright window, but should I also fertilize them now? And primarily with WHAT mix #s? The ones I bought this year are gorgeous and I don't want to lose half their leaves.
Thanks,
Lori

Answer
Lori,

You crotons are loosing their leaves when you bring them in because of lack of light. They need to be next to a large south facing window with all window covering open from dawn to dusk so they get as much sun as possible. These are sun loving plants and indoors they just don't get enough light to support all those leaves so they drop them. As for fertilizer any of the water soluble fertilizers such as Miracle Grow or one of the generics will work well. You shoul fertilize it according to the directions ont the box but do not fertilize it in January or February. Begin again in March. If you have more questions feel free to write again. Good luck.

Darlene