Question
I have 4 cronton plants, and some are doing pretty good. Most are in the south window. One is dying, but the leaves are real small. There are what looks like new growth on the side of the stalk. I don't know if I water it too much or not enough. It's humid on the second floor of my house. When I dumped some dirt to check if it is watered it wasn't moist but some spots were what do I do I like these plants. should I put some growing lights on them when it's cloudy?

Answer
Hi Alisa,

I don't know why one of the four is doing poorly if they are all in the same location and cared for the sane way. However, I can tell you what Crotons need to do well.

Keep them tightly potted by not repotting. Unnecessary repotting is the most common of all plant care mistakes and often leads to plant decline.

A sunny windowsill is essential for keeping Crotons healthy and colorful. A south windowsill is best as long as the window is uncovered throughout the day and the window light is not obstructed by nearby buildings or trees outside. Grow lights are not likely to help enough to justify the cost of using them. Even on a cloudy day, lots of useful light comes through a south facing window.

Water thoroughly - until a bit of water trickles through the bottom drain holes - as soon as the surface of the soil feels dry. Crotons do not tolerate dryness or neglect well at all. Even a single episode of inadequate water will cause sudden leaf drop.

I have written an article on repotting that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com