Question
My china Doll is losing all of its leaves can you please tell me what could be wrong.It is water good but not over watering the leaves are not brown or yellow they are just falling off please help thank you Helen  Mineral Point Mo.
it is in a large window in my kitchen gets plenty of light

Answer
Hi Helen,

China doll (Radermachera sinica) is a very finicky plant that drops foliage dramatically if anything upsets it including a change in environment, improper light, irregular watering, temperature change, pests, normal aging, and repotting.

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.

Allow the top half inch of soil to dry in between thorough waterings.

Avoid repotting it. If you have already, that may be the primary cause of the leaf drop.

My overall advice is to keep it potbound, prune it regularly, and provide a consistent environment for it.

BTW, it is difficult to keep this plant looking good indoors for more than a year or two. Good luck with yours.

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

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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