skip to main content

Why are the leaves on my Croton limp and drooping?

It can be alarming to notice sudden dramatic leaf drooping on your Croton, but don’t be alarmed! This is almost always totally normal, and easily fixed.

Incredibly dry soil

Crotons prefer their soil to stay consistently moist. Be sure you’re not over or underwatering your plant. Keep a consistent watering schedule–water when the top 2”-3” of the soil are dry.

 

If you accidentally let your Croton’s soil dry out completely, you may see leaves go limp, droop, and possibly drop. If the soil is extremely dry all the way through the pot, a good soak is in order. 

 

Here’s how to soak-water your plant:

 

  1. Place your plant in your sink or tub without the saucer. Fill your basin up with about 3-4″ of water. Make sure the water isn’t hot! 
  2. Allow your plant to soak up water through the drainage hole in the bottom of the pot for at least 45 min. 
  3. Feel the top of the soil after your plant has been soaking–has the water reached the top 2-3” of soil?
  4. If not all the soil feels saturated, water your Croton slightly from the top of the soil to help speed up the saturation.
  5. When your plant’s soil is evenly damp, drain the sink/tub and allow the plant to rest while it drains thoroughly. Place the plant back on its saucer and back in its proper spot. 

 

Keep in mind that when the soil goes from bone-dry to saturated, it can cause stress for your Croton and may cause leaves to drop. Give it some time to adjust.

 

Not enough humidity

Your Croton is a tropical plant, so it will thrive in more humid environments. Increase the humidity around your plant by misting the leaves on a regular basis, using a pebble tray, or moving a humidifier nearby.

Need more help?

We're confident your Croton will be back to normal in no-time, but if you've followed the steps above and things just aren't improving you can contact us here.