Zantedeschia Captain Marrero Sudden Leaf Drop - Causes & Fixes

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Overwatering and Root Rot

Zantedeschia cultivars are highly susceptible to Phytophthora rot when soil remains saturated. Excessive moisture prevents oxygen from reaching the rhizome, causing the plant to shed leaves as the root system fails.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Gently lift the rhizome from the pot to check for mushy, foul-smelling brown tissue.

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1 Immediately remove the plant from its current container and inspect the rhizome and roots for mushy, dark, or foul-smelling decay.

2 Prune away all dead or rotting roots using sterilized shears and repot the plant in a well-draining, fresh medium like Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix to ensure proper aeration.

Espoma Organic Potting Soil Mix

15.1 L

$22

In Stock

3 Switch to a more breathable substrate by mixing in horticultural perlite to prevent future waterlogging and use a moisture meter to ensure the soil dries out between waterings.

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Temperature Shock

Calla Lilies are sensitive to sudden drops in temperature or frost. A rapid shift in environment can cause the plant to enter an emergency dormancy state, resulting in immediate leaf senescence.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Check if there has been a recent cold snap or if the plant is sitting near a drafty window.

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1 Immediately move the plant to a stable, draft-free environment with consistent temperatures between 65°F and 75°F to prevent further stress.

2 Monitor the soil moisture closely using a moisture meter to ensure the plant does not enter rot during its dormancy phase.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

In Stock

3 Avoid fertilizing the plant until new growth appears, but once active, use a balanced liquid fertilizer to support recovery.

FoxFarm Grow Big Liquid Plant Food 1 Quart

0.9 L • 1 pcs

$30

In Stock

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Botrytis Lathyrus (Flower/Leaf Blight)

High humidity and poor airflow can trigger fungal pathogens that attack the fleshy stems of Zantedeschia. This often manifests as rapid wilting and shedding of leaves following spotted lesions.

Common

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How to confirm: Inspect the base of the fallen leaves for fuzzy, grey mold growth.

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1 Apply an organic fungicide to treat the blight and prevent the spread of Botrytis to healthy tissue.

Bonide Captain Jack's Copper Fungicide 32 oz

0.9 L • 1 pcs • Organic

$12

In Stock

2 Prune and discard all infected leaves and stems immediately to reduce the fungal load in the environment.

3 Improve air circulation around the plant and reduce humidity by spacing plants further apart or using a fan.

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Nutrient Deficiency (Nitrogen)

A severe lack of available nitrogen prevents the plant from maintaining its large, lush foliage. While usually a gradual process, extreme deficiency can cause sudden yellowing and shedding in actively growing bulbs.

Common

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How to confirm: Check if the older leaves are turning uniformly yellow before dropping.

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1 Apply a nitrogen-rich liquid fertilizer to provide immediate nutrient uptake and support new foliage growth.

FoxFarm Grow Big Liquid Plant Food 1 Quart

0.9 L • 1 pcs

$30

In Stock

2 Supplement the soil with an organic nitrogen source like blood meal to ensure a sustained release of nutrients.