Why does your Zantedeschia Red Alert have sudden leaf drop? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
Excessive moisture in the soil prevents oxygen from reaching the rhizomes of the Zantedeschia, leading to fungal pathogens like Phytophthora causing tissue decay. As the roots rot, the plant can no longer support foliage, resulting in sudden leaf senescence and drop.
Zantedeschia Red Alert is a tropical/subtropical plant that is highly sensitive to temperatures below 50°F (10°C). A sudden drop in ambient temperature or cold drafts can trigger an immediate physiological response where the plant sheds leaves to protect the rhizome.
While they prefer moist soil, complete dehydration causes the plant to enter a survival mode. To prevent further moisture loss through transpiration, the Calla Lily will rapidly shed its large leaves to preserve the energy stored in the underground rhizome.
High humidity combined with poor air circulation can lead to Botrytis cinerea attacking the foliage. This fungus causes lesions that quickly weaken the petiole, leading to the sudden detachment and dropping of leaves.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: