Question
Hi Will,

I received a Croton plant from work 2 years ago when my mother passed away. It was colorful very leafy. Now it is all green, leaves wilt and drop off, but new ones grow back. I repotted it earlier this year, didn't seperate the plants, but not sure if I put them in to big of a pot. I water moderately well every two weeks. I've heard of over watering plants and the roots rot. Can this happen to these kind of plants? Thanks for any advice.

Marsha

Answer
Hi Marsha,

Crotons are colorful plants that require lots of direct sun, small pots and soil that is kept moist. If any one of these ingredients is missing, the Croton reacts by dropping lower leaves. New growth will be green rather than red and yellow if it does not get enough light.

The repotting was not a good idea, I'm afraid to say. Now you have to be careful not to overwater. That means waiting until the center of the rootball feels almost dry before adding a small amount of water.

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