Why does your Rhododendron molle have sudden leaf drop? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
Excessive moisture or poorly draining soil can trigger Phytophthora species, which are particularly devastating to Rhododendrons. This fungal pathogen destroys the fine feeder roots, causing the plant to shed leaves rapidly as it loses the ability to transport water.
Rhododendron molle has thinner leaves compared to other species, making it highly susceptible to transpiration loss. If the soil dries out completely, the plant will drop leaves as a survival mechanism to reduce surface area and conserve moisture.
Rapid changes in temperature, such as a late spring frost or an unexpected heatwave, can cause physiological shock. This disrupts the plant's metabolic processes, leading to premature leaf abscission.
A lack of available nitrogen prevents the plant from maintaining chlorophyll and healthy leaf tissue. While usually a slower process, severe deficiency during active growth periods can lead to significant leaf loss.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues:
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