Why does your Rhododendron keleticum have sudden leaf drop? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
As a species that prefers moist but well-drained acidic soils, Rhododendron keleticum is highly susceptible to Phytophthora if the soil stays saturated. This fungal pathogen attacks the root system, causing the plant to lose its ability to transport water, resulting in sudden leaf wilt and abscission.
Rhododendums have relatively shallow root systems and low drought tolerance. A sudden period of high temperatures combined with dry soil can trigger a survival mechanism where the plant sheds leaves to reduce transpiration surface area.
Sudden drops in temperature or late spring frosts can damage the tender new growth of Keleti rhododendrons. When cell walls rupture due to freezing, the plant often responds by dropping the damaged foliage.
While less likely to cause 'sudden' drop than rot or drought, a severe lack of nitrogen in acidic soils can lead to chlorosis and eventual leaf senescence and shedding.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues:
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