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How to Care for a Croton with the Leaves Falling Off

Crotons are tropical shrubs that, in nature, grow in warm, humid environments. When they're grown indoors (as most are), special consideration must be given to these requirements -- especially the temperature. If the temperature dips below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, the croton may die. Crotons are guilty of routinely dropping leaves after dividing or transplanting. If you haven't transplanted the croton and the leaves are falling, it is generally an indication of either a change in its environment -- such as moving it to a new location -- or it could be the result of improper care.

Things You'll Need

  • Humidifier
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Instructions

    • 1

      Move the croton into bright sunlight, but do so gradually. Give it an hour or two of direct sun per day for the first three days and then gradually increase the amount of time it spends in the sun, over the course of two weeks.

    • 2

      Keep the croton in an area where the temperature remains above 60 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature rises above 80 degrees, mist the plant more frequently. Fluctuating temperatures, or those that are too warm or cool, may cause leaves to drop.

    • 3

      Place a humidifier in the area where you keep the croton. This is a tropical plant and will drop leaves when the air is too dry.

    • 4

      Water the croton when the soil is dry to the tip when you poke your index finger into it. Soak the soil with room-temperature water and empty the catch tray beneath the pot after 30 minutes.