Why does your Rhododendron tomentosum have sudden leaf drop? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
As a subarctic/boreal species, sudden leaf drop in Rhododendron tomentosum is often a defense mechanism against rapid temperature shifts or late-spring frosts that damage the tender foliage.
While this species prefers moist conditions, heavy clay soils or poor drainage lead to anaerobic conditions that cause rapid root death and subsequent leaf abscission.
Oomycete pathogens like Phytophthora can attack the fine feeder roots of Labrador Tea, particularly in high-moisture environments, leading to a systemic failure and sudden defoliation.
Despite being a moisture-loving plant, extreme desiccation in well-draining sandy soils can cause the plant to shed leaves to reduce transpiration surface area.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues:
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