Question
I had to look after my daughter's China Doll. It involved change of environment.(from her place to mine. ) Plant developed curled up leaves, turning yellow (some of them) others turned black and curled. I suspected disease and discarded plant. What was wrong? I have a healthy one, no trouble.Can I avoid a similar disaster with mine?

Answer
Hi Miriam,

Plants often do not respond well to changes in their environment. Reduced light and soil that is not allowed to dry out sufficiently are the most likely causes of the problem that you had with your daughter's China doll. It probably was not diseased.

China doll is native to tropical regions of China. It needs lots of bright light, but protection from direct midday sun. A north or east windowsill is best. It also is a bit fussy about temperature, preferring constant temps in the 65 to 75 degree range and away from warm or cold drafts. It doesn't respond well to changes in light, so find a good location for it and leave it there. China doll can be a finicky plant that will drop leaves rather dramatically for many reasons, including a change in environment, improper light, irregular watering, temperature change, pests, normal aging, and repotting. My overall advice is to keep it potbound, prune it regularly, and provide a consistent environment for it.

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

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If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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