Croton Leaf Drop: Diagnosing the Cause

Common Triggers

Crotons (Codiaeum variegatum) shed leaves due to:

• Spider mites or scale (check leaf undersides)
• Overwatering (especially in cool weather)
• Cold drafts or sudden temperature drops
• Chemical exposure (herbicide drift, fertilizer burn)

The Scratch Test

Scrape the main stem's bark with a fingernail. Green cambium = alive. Brown = dead. If alive, the plant will releaf once conditions improve.

Corrective Steps

1. Treat pests with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
2. Water only when top 2 inches of soil are dry.
3. Provide bright, indirect light and stable temperatures (60–85°F).
4. Mist foliage to raise humidity.