Why does your Rhododendron viscosum have sudden leaf drop? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
As a 'swamp' azalea, Rhododendron viscosum requires consistent moisture; sudden drop occurs if soil dries out completely or if the roots are suffocated by standing water. Rapid changes in soil moisture levels trigger an emergency physiological response to conserve resources.
Excessive moisture in heavy, poorly drained soils can lead to fungal pathogens like Phytophthora. This destroys the root system's ability to transport water, causing the leaves to drop as the plant enters a state of drought-like stress despite wet soil.
Sudden exposure to unseasonable frost or an extreme heatwave can cause R. viscosum to shed foliage to protect its core. Rapid temperature fluctuations disrupt the plant's metabolic processes and cell stability.
If the soil pH rises too high, Rhododendron species cannot absorb essential micronutrients like iron. While usually a gradual process, severe deficiency can lead to chlorosis and eventual premature leaf senescence.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues:
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