Why your citrus tree is losing leaves and how to fix it!

[@Guciacia]

Finally, someone answering THE question. Thank you for that! My two citrus trees are getting completely bare every winter and I was losing my mind why. Now I know the answer - humidity. I'm so glad to hear they are able to survive this. Is there any way to help them during indoor winter season?

[@PlantFanatics]

If it’s a humidity issue then the main way would be putting a humidifier in the room and maybe spritzing it with water once or twice a day. In our case it’s most likely the temperature fluctuations in our greenhouse. They actually did better in our garage with zero light where the temperature was consistent

[@The-Azure-Knight]

This didn't help at all. So basically it could be anything. I leave my tree outside permanently in a raised bed. It rains here once or twice a week and I use fertilizer. I see no pests on them either. So idk what to do.

[@KnightRider46]

Mine dropped its leaves about a month ago It has been beautiful for 2 years It’s been outside for a month and some new leaves have returned Don’t know what to do with it

[@JohnBean-hm1sm]

Big thumbs up for the good info and getting to the points quickly. We've all visited channels where the presenter spends 20+ minutes on a topic that could have taken 5.

[@Hedge-z4x]

So true !

[@PlantFanatics]

Thanks! We really appreciate that

[@susanlee5396]

I was worried sooo much cuz my orange tree started to shed few days after it was delivered... This video made me realize that it’s because of lack of light, humidity and temperature... I will patiently wait till I can bring this lovely orange tree to my backyard to see the new growing. Thank you!!

[@PlantFanatics]

Absolutely! If the tree was just delivered its not unusual for it to undergo some stress, and therefore some leaf drop. It will start growing nice and healthy again once outdoors in the sunshine. Thanks so much for the support!

[@felixkolomeysky8222]

Finally, I found the answer! My citrus trees used to be in the house (we live in the southern hemisphere) due to possum attacks. But as you have mentioned - not enough sunlight. So we put them on the balcony - they found a way to get to it. Ugh! My poor mandarin tree was already bearing 5 or even 7 fruits, and they ate half of them! And the leaves! And my lemon tree - it must have been suffering nutrient deficiency, or maybe not enough water (I think it all started with not enough sunlight - less photosynthesis) - the leaves started to yellow. But now we have nets and we are moving them back outside. We give them lots of love - hope it works!

[@mslick4655]

Nice video, it helped me out. I brought my tangerine tree inside in the winter and it was doing ok for about a month or two then, some leaves fell off but it wasn't dormant, then suddenly it lost all it's leaves in a few days and all the fruit was falling off. It was probably because the change of climate inside the house the only thing i don't get is the delayed reaction. Anyway, i think ill just keep the plant and see if it gets new growth in the spring.

[@PlantFanatics]

Yes, unfortunately this is an all too common occurrence. I've been there many times. If you can keep the plant in a southern exposed window during the winter that should give it plenty of light. I would also recommend if you're serious about getting fruit from the tree that you add a small humidifier right by the plant for the colder months. The drop in humidity can hit the tree pretty hard. I hope this helps you out. The tree should bounce right back in the spring as long as you keep those roots on the dryer side of the spectrum. Citrus are notorious for root disease when they are kept too wet during the winter. Good luck!!

[@warrenalbert7922]

Thanks for sharing. One of my Lemon trees dropped leaves and I think I overwatered it. I drained the excess water and it seems stabilized. I pulled both into my garage during our temp drop to 7 degrees here in North GA. I only had both trees 6 months so really just starting the learning process.

[@josiemoore2814]

WOW!! The best video on citrus plants!! I've watched 20 videos today and yours finally answered all of my questions! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! I've Subscribed. :) :) :)

[@PlantFanatics]

Wow! You’re too kind. I’m so glad I could help you out. 😀

[@EdvardBocMunch]

What help did you learn? I need mine help, my mine has no leaves

[@dannycarter3647]

Some awesome tips. I'm in the south of the UK and thankfully can grow Lemons (Eureka) and zipper oranges outside. They seem to just need really good drainage in our climate which is mild and wet (winter we very rarely get snow).

[@PlantFanatics]

You are so lucky! I only wish we could grow citrus outside where we are here in zone 7. It's just a little too chilly. This past winter we got down to negative 15 degrees in a freak winter storm that swept through Arkansas here in the US. Glad to meet you Danny!

[@dannramirez9]

Whew!!! I kept talking to my tree. I wanted it to tell me what was wrong. LOL I thought I was helping it by bringing it in from the freezing cold and it started dropping it’s leaves. I love my tree and was sooooo disappointed until I listened to your video. The stems look healthy so I’m looking forward to spring, so that I can take it out 😊

[@PlantFanatics]

Definitely! Your tree will be just fine come spring. 😀

[@livefromtheground7274]

put mine in pond containers and orange buckets I already had. they’re doing great! Nicely done

[@PlantFanatics]

What kind of citrus are you growing?

[@livefromtheground7274]

@@PlantFanaticsThat comment was for potatoes for another video, but my Meyer lemon, mandarin orange, lime and orange trees are In orange buckets. In Zone 6b. I’ll have to take them in come winter. PS two have leaf drop but Im hopeful.

[@jessica-ov6js]

Thank you I was about to throw it away. So I'm gonna keep it and see what spring brings

[@PlantFanatics]

Thanks for the comment! No problem at all, I put out the content to hopefully help people out. I'd bet your tree will do just fine in the spring!

[@JSB0827]

Hi! I'm from Delhi, India. I have a citrus orange plant grown in a 12" Potter. I bought it around six months back and had re-potted it after bringing it home. It also had 7-8 large sized green colored fruits when I bought. During winters, it shed all the leaves and fruits and became a bare stick, like you've shown in this video. On the onset of spring now, small leaves started appearing for the last one month. Few leaves also became a bigger size. I was quite delighted with its growth. Yesterday in the evening I applied fungicide in the soil. Today, in the morning, I noticed that it had shed most of the small and large leaves and the remaining ones are wilted. Soil is moist and not wet. A few branches are also turning brown around 2" from the top. How can i make it survive?

[@msgooglevoicegetsspoofed2988]

Hello from Bella Vista, AR. I like how you handled the information in this video. I have watched many videos and my citrus does pretty well in the winter and to me, it was a guessing game on what to really do. Thank you for being clear. I appreciate it.

[@PlantFanatics]

Thank you so much for the kind comment! We are neighbors! What kind of citrus trees do you grow right now?

[@msgooglevoicegetsspoofed2988]

@@PlantFanatics I have a tangerine I started from seed roughly 10 years ago. It almost died a couple of times. Key lime, kaffir lime, Meyer lemon, couple of orange. Most started from seeds and are still young plants. I seem to be getting better at identifying what they need and their tolerance levels. Bought a pomegranate last year at Home Depot in Harrison and it did well this winter. My garage houses the plants during the winter with a couple grow lights and a space heater. Looking forward to taking them out when it's time. Also bought a banana tree last year and decided to pot it and bring it indoors for the winter. It's doing quite well. I have to keep it cut back because it's getting tall. Take care and I hope you have great success with your videos.

[@Sandwichking-hikes]

Avoid root rot with a root rot proof soil mix: 30% peat moss, 30% pumice or gravel, 30% perlite, 10% coarse sand all mixed together. On TOP of that soil put a couple inches compost spaced off the trunk, cover that in crushed leaves. I water my citrus everyday, no root rot. Came here because one I just bought had some yellow spot on leaf when I received it

[@classicalgarden]

Definitely helped. From Michigan.

[@cinderellie8]

Thanks for this video! Im so relieved. i just moved my verigated lemon inside inder a grow light for the north east winter and the leaves are dropping. It makes sense that its shocked. So im wondering if i even need grow lights if it gets to the point where theres no leaves. And im wondering if it may grow well indoors if i dont put it out in the spring.

[@SullyN82]

So how do you check for and get rid of the pests?

[@underated17]

Thank you! Very clear advice!

[@criede8377]

I'm new at growing citrus and this is my first attempt at trying minneola trees. I bought 2 (5’) trees and one navel orange for pollinating. I've had them for 2 months and have them in containers outdoors as I live in TN (6b) and will bring them indoors in the late fall. The trees are doing great with new growth and showing new flower buds that I am hand pollinating. Do I need to do this or can I assume that bees will handle pollination? A second concern is lighting when I bring them indoors. I'm struggling with what kind of grow light I should get, or if I even need one. I have great south/east window exposure through the winter, but the days are short. Can you please advise? Thanks in advance for your assistance.

[@PlantFanatics]

Those are great questions. Congrats on the trees! Pollination is not a concern, as citrus trees are completely self fertile, so even if you only had one tree they would still have tons of fruit. The bees and the wind will definitely take care of pollination. As far as lighting is concerned, I would personally rely on the sunlight through the winter if you have bright windows. Your trees will do just fine as long as you hold back on the watering a bit through the winter months. The trees don’t like wet feet. Good luck and I hope this helps you!

[@Tess316]

Finally someone not talking BS! Thanks!

[@shivaniesingh3826]

What are the best fertilizers for lemon tree?

[@PlantFanatics]

Hi Shivanie! There are tons of fertilizers out there that will work for citrus trees. I specifically use Jobes Organics Citrus & Fruit Fertilizer. Its a pelleted mixture that you just top dress around your tree. Always follow the directions on the back of the package in order to figure out how much to use for your specific tree. If you prefer a liquid feed you can always use Miracle Grow liquid fertilizer in a diluted form more often. This seems to be a quicker way to get the nutrients into the tree. Either option that you choose its very important to stick to a feeding schedule in order to keep your trees healthy. I tend to feed once a month while the tree is in active growth. Here in zone 7 I stop feeding in September. I hope this helps. Thanks so much for the support!

[@shivaniesingh3826]

@@PlantFanatics I have miracle grow but how often should I use it? My plant is dying I guess.. Seems as though it was over watered or lack of nutrients

[@PlantFanatics]

@@shivaniesingh3826 I recommend once a month during the growing season depending where you live. Here in zone 7 I stop fertilizing in September and begin again in spring. If you believe the tree is dying due to overwatering you should let it completely dry out before you water it again.

[@shivaniesingh3826]

@@PlantFanatics I'm from Guyana. It's very hot here. I didn't watered it after I thought it was over watered

[@PlantFanatics]

@@shivaniesingh3826 oh wow, awesome. If you have the watering and fertilization down it should be fine. Citrus are extremely forgiving plants.

[@driversedvantage5723]

I sure appreciate this video!

[@genecarlsonii3115]

Thumbs up for the Razorback sweatshirt......Go Hogs!!!

[@mairereier9723]

Thanks. My flatmates helped me to get the tree root rot by overwatering...and like any overbearing parent I went the other way (in summer!) While it was spurting growth and ended up with curling leaves (water stress says Google) and dropping leaves. I wonder how long it will take it to get over this "emotional drama" 🤔 thanks though, good to hear it's not the end of the world.

[@PlantFanatics]

Every tree is different depending on certain condition elements, but it should rebound relatively quickly. Citrus are extremely vigorous growers when the conditions are right.

[@jimbarczynski2835]

Hello, I have a question. I have a lemon tree and green good looking leaves started to fall and I noticed some sticky scales on the leaves. I washed with mild soap and water but the leaves were still falling out, but now it started to sprout a new growth. I live in zone 5b north.

[@MA-jx6yq]

Great info! Thank you...

[@PlantFanatics]

Thank you for watching the video! Happy growing!

[@WorldRockumentaryChannel]

Great Vid, I purchased two eureka lemon tree, One is a dwarf, I planted that one in the ground. The other I immediately repotted in a 15 gallon pot. The one in the pot I had on rollers and moved it around. I'm in the desert zone 9B. Sometimes when it was 120º I'd bring it into the house where it was 78. So I set it back outside where it's been since the begining of October, Now all the leaves have fallen off except for one branch that still has a cluster of leaves. It just finished producing about 20 buds that flowered and fell off. I've set up a heat lamp with a shade box I use at night right now as it's starting to drop into the lower 40's and soon into the 30's.... What do you think it's doing? Thanks for any info.

[@PlantFanatics]

Your citrus trees can easily handle nighttime lows down into the 30's. I live in zone 7, which is a bit too cold for citrus trees many days during the winters, and I used to throw my trees into an unheated garage all winter long. They got no light and temperatures would be just at or above freezing. Many winters the trees would completely defoliate and go somewhat into a dormancy until the warmer spring weather returned. But they've always bounced right back and fruited for me the following spring. Obviously make sure you compost the trees as soon as the warmer spring temperatures are back and the trees are back in a stage of active growth, flowering, and fruiting. That being said, I would simply make sure that you make the temperature changes between the daytime and nighttime as small as possible. Theres no need for a heat lamp unless it get below 32 degrees at night. If the leaves fall off, make sure you drastically decrease your watering, and allow the tree to come to almost complete dryness in-between waterings. No fertilizers during the winter. Your tree will recover from leaf drop if you keep these things in mind. I hope this helps you out. Thanks so much for the great comment and support! Happy growing!

[@bandile126]

Can it be also over fertilization?

[@PlantFanatics]

Absolutely. A very common issue with them as well. Thanks so much for watching!

[@bandile126]

@@PlantFanatics I think I over fertilized mine I hope I haven't damaged it permanently it been shedding leaves a bit, with a little yellowing

[@manuel3hernandez]

Do I get a humidifier

[@valeriesanchez3074]

Bought mine from home depot. It is thriving.

[@PlantFanatics]

Wow Valerie! I’m glad to hear that. What variety is yours?

[@valeriesanchez3074]

@@PlantFanatics meyer. No flowers yet but very healthy

[@PlantFanatics]

Awesome! Let me know when you get those flowers and fruit!

[@RichardAndrewParedes-te9ql]

Hi, I have a kumquat tree which is losing a lot of leaves, it is dropping its leaves by twos or threes daily. I am not sure if the hot weather caused it (because it is around 35-40 Degrees C daily in the tropics where I live.) or if overwatering caused it. It is planted in pumice and granular bonsai soil mix. I watered it daily. Also, it gave a lot of fruits, which I plucked and planted the seeds in soil. I hope you could please give me advice on how I could save my tree. It is still green but it is really losing a lot of leaves and the tips of the branches seem to look that they are drying up. Your advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much in advance.

[@PlantFanatics]

Don’t look at watering as an everyday occurrence. Look at it as a practice done only when the soil dries out. I’d think it’s a potential root rot situation.

[@toastopia1]

I have a lime tree, it was left outside in new jersey freezing temps, I brought it inside and I ordered a grow light, it dropped half it leaves and I hope it survives! I only have room in the basement for it, it is next to a window with light! Do I water 1x week? Fertilize 1x every other month? Grow light 12 hours a day? It has allot of thorns and seems to be strong!

[@PlantFanatics]

In the winter time while the tree is inside of your house you are going to want to lay off the fertilizers (especially if the leaves have fallen off of the tree). Before watering the tree always allow the soil to come nearly to complete dryness before watering again. Citrus are susceptible to root rot so allowing them to dry out between watering is of the utmost importance. Always remember that just because the top portion of soil looks dry does not mean that the soil towards the bottom of the pot is dry yet. So I typically go by the weight of the container. I know the difference between the weight when it is well watered and when it is almost all the way dry. You only need the grow light when you see new leaves starting to form. If theres no leaves right now then theres no need to waste the electricity. Just keep an eye on it and watch for those new buds breaking. Once you see them I would turn on the lights for 6-12 hours a day. Thank you so much for the great questions. Happy growing!!

[@toastopia1]

@@PlantFanatics yes thank you! My basement was to cold, so I moved it upstairs in my room! It's warmer and I can keep it company😁, I will water it when it's dry and no fertilizer, it still has a handful of healthy leaves, so I will keep some light on it! Thanks for the response and will let u know when it starts to get healthy again!

[@PlantFanatics]

@@toastopia1 I'm looking forward to it!

[@ClaraLeung529]

Hi, my yuzu tree has lost all its leaves this winter (indoors in Vancouver, BC). I do have a grow light on it 8-10 hours a day. Would you recommend still using a grow light and watering when the soil dries out throughout the rest of the winter? Thank you!

[@cypresse1620]

Great channel thank you so much! Do you know how often should you water and feed from sep onwards to spring please?

[@PlantFanatics]

The same principles apply to winter growing as the rest of the year for the most part. Only water when the top 2 inches of soil dry out. Fertilization should be held back for the winter months.

[@monicajay7117]

Thanks for sharing. After bringing my citrus tree indoors, the leaves began drooping, turned brown and very dry. Victim of over watering. Can I repot it at this time or what is the best way to dry out the roots?

[@PlantFanatics]

It's probably best to wait until spring to change the pot if you can. If the pot is far too big for the tree then you can change it to a smaller one. But if its just simply an overwatering problem then I would allow the plant to come to nearly complete dryness between waterings and leave it in the same pot.

[@monicajay7117]

@@PlantFanatics Big thanks for your reply.

[@ec6965]

Great video! Thank you so much. I was really worried when my little lemon tree lost all of its leaves. Now I will be ordering citrus fertilizer for the little guys. Can you recommend a citrus fertilizer?

[@PlantFanatics]

I love Jobes Organics citrus fertilizer. I think the stuff is great. Works wonders. Thank you for taking the time to watch the video. Happy growing!!

[@nukenridge4921]

I left it outside was doing okay but it rained hard and I thinks it's over watering plus tiny bugs under leaves.Could I transplant it in another pot with fresh earth

[@PlantFanatics]

You definitely can. And you can add some extra perlite for better drainage

[@nukenridge4921]

@@PlantFanatics Any preferred kind that works best

[@barbarawilliams5508]

This was great information.

[@PlantFanatics]

Thank you so much for the kind words!!

[@CRpatriot]

That’s exactly what my tree looks like. 🤦🏻‍♀️😢😭🥺😩 I only got four lemons out of it last year and I’m in California I think my mom waters it so much, it was in a pot and I put it in ground I told her to stop watering it. I water it once a week. The little lemons that were growing on it look like they were dying I had a completely bald tree bald and I had three lemons hanging from it and they were green forever I cut them off. Now I just fertilized it and I fertilize it again three months from now we’ll see what happens 🙏🏼

[@PlantFanatics]

Thanks for the comment! There's lots of reasons this could happen so keep us up to date on your situation, we're here to help!

[@JenniNight]

I have a Eureka Lemon tree and it used to give me tones of lemons but now I'm lucky if I get one good one. I feed it I water it I keep it warm I have a humidifier and a grow light. I get tones of flowers and small lemons but then 99 or even 100% will fall and the tree will save none. I've had it for a few years and it's in a 16" pot. Any ideas ?

[@omgnoi]

This was so so so helpful, thank you

[@PlantFanatics]

Thank you for taking the time to watch the video! Happy growing!

[@Peppermon22]

Thanks. I think mine is over watering. Would twice a month be ok?

[@PlantFanatics]

Watering potted plants isn’t a matter of scheduling, it’s a matter of soil dryness. So simply stick your finger in the soil 2 inches down and if it’s dry give it a drink. Water until it comes out of the bottom and wait for dryness again.

[@Mochi-sn3ud]

Get a soil meter for water:) Easy!!!

[@rooshavarathakumar1767]

Can you please give us how to prevent them from dropping leaves

[@PlantFanatics]

I will make a video on the topic very soon. Thank you for the question. Happy growing!

[@karanmaanthisisit9299]

How long it take to grow back green leaves after losing ?????

[@PlantFanatics]

Not long at all. As soon as spring weather hits they’ll be back in a week or two.

[@ninoechavez1402]

Hi bud, i live in new zealand and summer temps here in our southern part is still below 10most nights. Would my citrus plant benefit living in a greenhouse all year long instead of bringing it indoors?

[@mattanderson6080]

Great information, My lemon tree has 12 small lemons growing and lost all the leaves. I think I may have over watered and the leaves have dropped, it’s also now winter in the northeast and plant is only indoors now. How long will it take to dry out? I haven’t watered in a few weeks and the soil still feels moist, I believe the pot has good drainage, anytime I watered it would drain out of the bottom and I would dump the tray. Any advice? Thank you!

[@PlantFanatics]

I would put a fan in the room that you keep the citrus to ramp up air circulation. This should help the moisture to be evaporated from the soil faster. Are you using a good potting soil that has plenty of perlite and vermiculite in it? If Not I would encourage you to repot your tree. Citrus grow well in clay or terra-cotta pots because it help them to dry out faster between waterings. Be patient and let the soil dry out. Do all these things and you will be successful. My bet is that if all the leaves are gone from the tree that those fruit will probably fall off before coming to complete ripeness. Thank you so much for the great question and good luck! Im sure your tree will bounce back in no time. Happy growing!

[@mattanderson6080]

Thank you! I will definitely add a fan and re pot once dried out and double check the soil!

[@MrConnormccall]

So my small lemon tree was underwatered as I was away and it was way hotter than expected while I was away so all the leaves have fallen off there is 3 small fruit should I remove them to give the tree the best chance to re-leaf or leave them be

[@PlantFanatics]

I would definitely remove them. The plant will most likely end up dropping the fruit anyway. Good luck!

[@qwertyqaz2227]

Nip in the bud, right?

[@Raw-Vidz]

Please help😰 having a hard time saving my lemon tree. It came with a small pot. First I gave it nutreince and 18 hours of light and it started to grow insanely fast with 10-15 new lemons. Then it started to curl some of the leaves and dry out and all the problems began. First bugs, long story short i got rid of them without damaging the tree. So realised it was hard to control overwatering and vice versa with that small pot and the roots also started to come out of the pot as well. I quickly replanted from 3L pot to 20L without pruning the roots to much and gave it a little bit of water. Now all leaves is dropped and got dead wood, its completely stripped of and only has 1 lemon left that’s probably about to drop any time now. What should i do now, prune the dead wood and make sure the soil dry out every time i give it water and hope for the best? It’s outside in nice weather 18-25c degree.

[@PlantFanatics]

After you have repotted your lemon tree you should water the plant thoroughly until you see water dripping from the bottom of the new pot. I recommend using a good soil like miracle grow potting mix for best growth. After your initial watering you should only water again once the top few inches of soil come to a complete dryness. Always water until water is draining from the bottom of the pot. When you have planted a tree in new soil you should never add new fertilizer until the tree has been watered for a few months and the preexisting nutrients in the potting mix have leached out of the soil. If you fertilize a freshly potted lemon tree you will end up over-fertilizing the tree because of those already present fertilizers in the soil, hence why the bag says it will feed your plant for up to 9 months. Give your tree full sun, and if the temperatures are extremely hot (90 and above), you will want to water your tree everyday. When the temperature is cooler (85 and below) you will simply want to watch for that top three inches of soil to try out between waterings. When fertilizing choose either a liquid or pelleted feed, and be sure to follow the directions on the back of the box to a T. With proper soil, full sun, proper watering, and a good fertilizing schedule you should be good to go. Check for a green cambium layer (the living layer of the tree just below the bark) by simply scratching the bark with your fingernail. If you see brown and no green, the branch is dead and should be pruned off the tree. Do this for every branch on the tree until all dead wood has been pruned away. This is all that is necessary for proper health and recovery of a tree. As far as the pests are concerned, they are usually a sign of a weak and unhealthy tree. Take care of all the needs of your tree and they can typically ward off any pests that may wish to kill them. For aphids and mealybugs simply mix 2 tbs of neem with a squirt of dish soap in a spray bottle. Fill the bottle with water and spray these pests. Repeat this cycle for 7-14 days until all signs of pests are gone. Good luck and keep me posted on the progress of your tree! Thanks for the comment and support!

[@chrisbrockel4073]

Can you put coffee grounds in the soil too help

[@PlantFanatics]

There's no hard in trying! Let us know how it turns out!

[@jasonwilliams2370]

My navel orange tree has lost all it's leaves and has twig die back... How long should it be before I see new growth? Leaves started to fall when cold weather came.

[@e.r.6147]

Great Video! Make one about Citrus transplant shock 👍🏼

[@PlantFanatics]

Can do. Thanks for the idea!! Thanks for taking the time to watch the video!

[@EdvardBocMunch]

Did you make the video about citrus transplant shock? Mine is dying. Has zero leaves line tree. I mist it many times a week sometimes 3 x daily

[@LouReef69]

hi there what is your opinion on growing lemon trees in cloth pots? where the roots can stay dry and oxygenated all the time?

[@PlantFanatics]

I don’t think there’s a problem with cloth pots as long as they can last for some time. They will probably have to be watered more often. Outside of that I don’t see any problem with them.

[@tavyfavorite1149]

I heard if your leaf curl upward mean under water. If your leaf curl downward mean over water. If leaf turn yellow check for pesticide, root bound or lack of nutrients.

[@PlantFanatics]

I conceive that if the leaves turn downward they have lost turgor pressure meaning they do not have the water needed. If they fold upwards you may have a nutrient deficiency on your hands. Thank you so much for the great comment!

[@alb91878]

The first winter I had my Meyer lemon in the garage it did fantastic and kept all of its leaves even though I didn't have a grow light for it, this winter it's dropped all of its leaves, and some of the actual branches are starting to die and I'm having to trim them off. Can anyone help with this? I just started putting them outside and I'm in zone 8A to 8 b

[@lynnking2480]

I'm growing lemon tree from seed and I bought some fertilizer for my lemon tree and I poked holes in the soil put some of fertilizer in the ground next thing my leaves looked they were burnt and falling off

[@PlantFanatics]

I’m sorry to hear that. You definitely don’t need to poke holes in the soil, simply place it on top. What kind of fertilizer did you use?

[@michellel564]

I just repotted my root bound 4 ft citrus tree my leaves a few are yellowing and dropping and the leaves look dry but it's not what's wrong with her? I'll send you a picture

[@PlantFanatics]

What plant hardiness zone are you in. If its wintertime and chilly its typically not a good idea to up-pot the tree when the growth has slowed down. My advice would be to make sure you allow the root system to dry out completely between waterings to insure you avoid root rot. I hope this helps.

[@greyczdream]

Great video! Perhaps you could help answer my particular situation with my lemon tree. I germinated mine was a seed with great success and after 4 years it grew to be about a foot and a half tall. For 4 years it's been kept indoors, watered once a week on the same schedule no change. The leaves were booming and it was getting so tall I thought it would be ok to clip just a few inches from the top growth. After I did this, the tree lost all it's leaves and the bark/branches have turned yellow? Can mine be saved? I wish I would never have cut the top because that's when all these issues happened. I researched online that it would send stress hormones to the lower half to signal the tree to branch off and become more bushy. I wanted a more full lemon tree versus height wise. Any advice or recommendations would be greatly appreciated! I also transplanted to a new planter. Thank you!

[@PlantFanatics]

Make sure you up-pot the tree when the roots get too restricted in their current pot. Make sure you allow the soil to come almost to complete dryness between waterings. Citrus are highly susceptible to root rot, so that information is very important to follow. Make sure you have a regular feeding schedule for the tree during the growing season when the plant is in active growth, and lay off during the winter months. Typically pruning your tree will not cause leaf drop. Leaf drop only occurs do to another form of stress. You did the pruning correct from what I read so I wouldn't worry about that. Make sure the tree is getting plenty of sunlight in the spring and summer. I would recommend putting it outside during those months for the strongest healthiest growth. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

[@teter129]

So what causes leaf drop and die back on outdoor citrus? I’m in Florida, so there is no need to bring them inside. Been hitting it fish fert, and liquid copper, with no noticable results.

[@PlantFanatics]

What’s the soil like? Have you done a soil test to make sure everything good for your tree? Sometimes when we add fertilizer and other minerals to a soil that doesn’t need them we can cause a bad growing medium.

[@teter129]

@@PlantFanatics No I have never done a soil test. I’ll look into it. Thanks.

[@d.c.marsha9027]

This was very helpful thank you,

[@ghettomt]

I bought one from the nursery and once I planted it outside, it started losing its leaves. Will it die if they lose ALL the leaves?

[@PlantFanatics]

Dropping leaves when first planted is not a need for concern. New leaves will begin to form not long after.

[@wispydandelion8463]

Thank you! I think my citrus tree has nutrient deficiency. Could you expand more on that issue? I read somewhere that it could be magnesium (or manganese) deficiency specifically. Thank you for a great video and please help me understand how to correct nutrient deficiency. How often should I fertilize my citrus tree? It is a Meyer Lemon tree.

[@PlantFanatics]

Hey Cari! Understanding nutrient deficiencies can become extremely complicated. Many of the leaf symptoms are similar, and it can take quite some time to truly grasp whats causing the chlorosis of the leaves. With that being said, the greatest defense against nutrient issues is simple: a full proof fertilization schedule for your tree. I highly recommend a citrus fertilizer like Jobes Organics. I personally use a liquid feed. Whatever you choose you must follow the directions on the back of the package to a T. I know with my miracle grow all purpose liquid fertilizer I add 1/2 teaspoon per 2 gallons, or 1/4 teaspoon per gallon, depending on the size of your watering can. I use this mixture once every two weeks during the growing season starting in late march, and ending in early September here in zone 7. When you use a fertilizer like this, you are covering all your bases and ridding yourself of all nutrient issues. Please understand that this is not a quick fix and it can take many weeks for healthy leaves to return to your trees. I also recommend that every few weeks you use a foliar feed that you add to a spray bottle (this can be found at any plant nursery typically) and spritz the leaves every few weeks during the growing season. By foliar feeding you allow the leaves of the tree to absorb nutrients quickly, and this in turn can help give you healthy leaves much more rapidly. Always make sure you allow your tree to dry out between waterings, and when you do water to make sure it flows from the bottom of the pot. In hot weather (90 and above) you may find yourself having to water every day. Give the tree full sun, and hop onto that fertilization schedule I just talked about, and you'll have an extremely happy tree in not time. Don't be overly concerned about which deficiency is most prevalent in your tree, just simply understand it is asking to have nutrients added to the soil. Thanks so much for the comment and support! I hope this helps.

[@royhoco5748]

have your soil tested you will get a report that tells the nutrient level in the soil and you can use that info to amend your soil

[@edfarmer2613]

Very helpful...Thanks

[@saminahussain7162]

I have citrusree it dropped leaves in older pot so repotted in bigger size in drainage hole I added some Coco coir firbre Citrus compost on top soil I use Coco husk chips hold moisture saving watering to much in winter when soil dry on top I remove chips I spray then put Coco chips on top top soil the Coco chips must be kept dry in winter and Coco chips can be watered in summer

[@PlantFanatics]

Thank you for the information and for taking the time to watch the video. Happy growing!!

[@AC-vc9vh]

My Meyer lemon plant has stayed in the same spot in my sunroom. It’s now quite humid in there and around 80-95 degrees everyday. Very humid in there and lots of lot. I’m see white buds but it’s dropping a ton of leaves - any ideas? It’s in a pot.

[@AC-vc9vh]

*light

[@PlantFanatics]

It’s never done that in this room before?

[@backyardsnackyard]

Thank you for a great video!!

[@PlantFanatics]

Thank you so much for watching! So glad to have you here.

[@PineGeri]

Dwafrf Meyer Lemon, in Greenhouse, 14 hours daylight now, Pine, Az zone 7b. GH gets as cool (now) as 40’nights, and even with barn and ceiling fans as warm as 95 day-but only for about 2 hours. Leaves are falling, but some new growth, and flowering. Thoughts?

[@PlantFanatics]

Your trees are going to be absolutely fine. However, that wide range of temperatures taking place can cause stress to the plant which in turn is likely to blame for leaf drop. The new growth and flowering taking place is a very good sign that the tree is healthy and doing well. If you could potentially lower that 95 degree temperature with a vent fan that would probably help tremendously.

[@PineGeri]

@@PlantFanatics i have 3 fans automated to turn on and off at specific temps, all much lower than 95. Today, 5/17, for example, it never got above 80*, so fans never came on. Ceiling fan is on continuously now. Heat was on during winter. My fear is overwatering because in a container. We installed an automated water system today. Maybe water once a week?

[@PlantFanatics]

@@PineGeri I wouldn’t go off a specific time schedule to water it. Citrus are very sensitive to overwatering so it’s best to let it stay on the dryer side. If you suspect that you overwatered I would definitely let that thing get bone dry before you water it again to prevent root rot.

[@kanthvickram4490]

i brought my citrus tree inside the houde for winter, within a week all the leaves (except 7 leaves), and all the 23 tiny fruits droped except one lemon. today 4th of March still inside the house i see two flower buds appearing; that spared lemon is still in the tree !!!!! is it the right time to bring the lemon tree outside? ( i checked the temperature outside today and it is 7 degree celcius)

[@PlantFanatics]

So it’ll probably drop whatever it has on it due to the severe change in humidity from going outside to inside and vice versa.

[@Castiel_913]

I live in MN and I left my lime potted plant in the sun too long in the summer. As a result my leaves started to curl and droop. So then immediately brought it inside and now I’m experiencing Indoor shock. I know you mentioned in the video that there is nothing we can do. My lime tree eventually lost all of its leaves and the fruit started dying. Now my branches are turning light brown and just drying out. Is this normal for indoor shock? Thanks in advance!

[@PlantFanatics]

No, your tree is definitely dying. Lime trees can take full sun easily, so the question is did you move it outside too fast? And how hot was it?

[@Castiel_913]

@@PlantFanatics It was 95-98 degrees of direct sun outside for 3 days. I moved it back outside after about a week of being inside. What should i do?

[@TheGratefulGarden]

I have greasy spot disease and can’t find a video or much info on how to fix it

[@TheFiredragon52]

Both my citrus tree, one after another grown to the length 4 feet and high, once brought indoor during Winter time, remain normal for a month or so, but once z" Green leaves start Balling, there's not turning back till both eventually die away !

[@TheNilda437]

Thanks so much you are awesome

[@PlantFanatics]

Thanks for watching! You rock! 😀

[@desleymendoza7445]

Does it work the same way with the fruit dropping off? My orange tree came last week and both the leaves and the fruit are falling off. I assume the change in climate is contributing to the problem, but it was delivered fallen over to one side with part of the root ball exposed. The guy who delivered it said it was like that when he picked it up and thought the nursery had allowed it to grow like that. Not sure I should have, but I propped it back up and buried the root ball. The poor thing is under a lot of stress. ☹

[@PlantFanatics]

Yeah with time, proper fertilizing, and following other steps in the video it’ll be fine most likely

[@desleymendoza7445]

@@PlantFanatics Thank you. 🙂

[@chickenfarm09]

I may have left mine outdoors too long and it has been very cloudy, cool and no sun. I think it got down to 50 or a little below at night. It started dropping leaves, and hasn't stopped since I brought it indoors under a grow light. I figure it will be a total loss once again. I can't seem to grow citrus.

[@PlantFanatics]

I wouldn't give up on it just yet. Citrus are extremely hardy, and typically when people believe they've killed the tree, its not actually dead. I can't tell you how many times total defoliation has occurred on my citrus trees and they come back as good as new in the spring. I'd hold onto it, let the soil come almost to complete dryness before watering it, and I bet it'll be just fine. Thank you so much for the comment, and happy growing!

[@chickenfarm09]

@@PlantFanatics Thanks for getting back to my comment. That means a lot!

[@PlantFanatics]

@@chickenfarm09 I love hearing from you guys, so don't be shy! Hope to hear from you again soon!

[@rafaelramos441]

50 degrees coming on gradually should not be fatal to Citrus.

[@PlantFanatics]

@@rafaelramos441 You're absolutely right about that. Sometimes it has nothing to do with the temperature and everything to do with nutrient deficiencies or some stressor to the plant. Either way citrus trees are extremely resilient and will typically bounce back even after complete defoliation. Thank you so much for the great input!

[@traceejohnson290]

Hi new to your channel. I have a large lemon tree that has probably been planted for 50 years outside in the ground. I noticed in the last couple of weeks that a flower has started growing into the tree, it is Not white. Is that ok, do I need to remove those flowers or will my lemon tree stop producing lemons and turn into flowers? HELP I love my lemon tree.

[@PlantFanatics]

I’m having a hard time picturing what is happening. If you’d like to send an email to [e-mail] with pictures I can take a better look and maybe help out.

[@andreabytnar5561]

My son planted his citrus tree from a seed 10yrs ago. This year the leaves are dropping more than ever. It’s summer, I want to take it outdoors where it thrives but after one day the leaves burned. Help?!

[@PlantFanatics]

The plant must be acclimated to full sunlight. Put it in a partial sun location for a few days and slowly give it more light. It will be fine. The leaves simply got scorched.

[@t.r.m1138]

I have a grapefruit tree. The leaves are falling off. Looks like theyre getting chopped off. Haven't seen any bugs . Dk if they're having a party at night or if it's overwatering. All these issues sound like it could be what's happening. Its happening in October. I also just moved it inside. I'll let u guys know.

[@PlantFanatics]

Thanks for letting us know! If you have any other questions please let us know. We'd be happy to help in any way that we can. Happy growing!

[@t.r.m1138]

@@PlantFanatics thanks I am keeping an eye on my grapefruit. it is shedding like crazy but I'm gonna keep watering it and taking care of it through spring to see how the issues are then. My Moro orange right beside is shedding at a much slower pace. I will check beck in during spring to let u guys know how it goes. They spent their life outside and then I moved them inside in a short period. Hopefully there will be new leaves .

[@PlantFanatics]

@@t.r.m1138 I'm sure there will be! I'm excited for the update! Happy growing!

[@captainplanet1260]

Excellent video thank you.

[@PlantFanatics]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@toothless3835]

mine all fell off. ugh.

[@Free_Falastin2024]

My citrus got hit with low humidity, low temps, and dry soil all at once. I hope they flush out again in the spring.

[@PlantFanatics]

They are pretty resilient from my experience.

[@gracieguerrero1489]

Well I brought my tree Meyer Lemon inside for winter and it is butt naked every leaf fell. I hope this is correct because I will move it outside in Spring Im sure it is not pest and not over watered. So YaY

[@PlantFanatics]

Did you do a cambium layer test?

[@gracieguerrero1489]

@@PlantFanatics a cvian layer test. If this is to check that there is life in the trunk/source then yes. It is green and strong

[@carissajohnson5994]

My friend was movings and Gabe me her grapefruit as soon as I got home I planted it water etc all the leaves are brown

[@PlantFanatics]

Was it potted? If so any change in environment can send it into shock. Just give it time and it should come back. Let it dry out between waterings and get on a fertilization schedule.

[@carissajohnson5994]

@@PlantFanatics no it went ground to ground.. now I have it a extremely large pot.. I'm not giving up on it

[@AbidHussain-hh5gs]

Thank

[@BradenYoungVideo]

I used to have the exact same hoodie haha

[@PlantFanatics]

Great minds think alike! I think I got this hoodie at Dillards a few years ago. I love it! haha

[@jacquelineolson4267]

My Calamondin trees dropped nearly all their leaves overnight. (March 23) They've been indoors, basement, south & east facing windows since November. (SC zone 7 growing area) Have always had this procedure of wintering them for the past 5 years, never had this happen before. Soil is on the dryer side but not parched. They began flowering a bit early last month and have a dozen or so orange bulbs starting. Hoping they hang on until it's time to go back outside. Not sure what to do to help them hang on.

[@PlantFanatics]

Citrus are very resilient so I’m sure it’ll recover and take off in spring. We have our best results when we just put our citrus in the garage and they don’t defoliate they like do in our greenhouse (zone 7 as well). They like consistency more than anything, constant fluctuations in temperature and humidity can really cause some issues.

[@aholegardener6191]

You say there’s not much you can do about humidity leaf loss, but are you sure? The humidity leaf loss, doesn’t always recover. Other reasons, for leaf loss, can draw back to container size and your growing medium. Back to the humidity leaf loss.. It can be extremely problematic.. even when the tree is getting artificial light, this alone can dry out the tree, that is all ready lacking the moisture the -tropical- tree needs. I am just going to jump all over the place with my thoughts, (adhd trait) you mentioned change of environment, from humidity to lighting.. the key is to acclimate the -tropical- tree. Yes, I am pointing out tropical.. because you are on key with the humidity.. which is something many citrus growers do not have to be concerned about. I am in zone 5b. I monitor my indoor humidity with a weather station, as well as outdoor. My indoor humidity, can drop to the 20’s during mid winter. So, back to you saying there’s really nothing you can do about it! My father use to tell almost daily.. can’t, can not , ever do anything.. I will tell you right now, I run humidifiers and vaporizers.. wasted my time.. It dawned on me.. while propagating a lemonquat actually. They key to propagating plants is humidity.. which is also the key to growing tropicals.. what do we do.. we place humidity domes over our propagation area.. to the point. There is something you can do.. you might be thinking, how do I add a humidity dome, to a large tree?? I mean a lot of people use sandwich bags to propagate.. so use a bag to hold humidity to your citrus??? I ordered clear trash bags on amazon.. they are 95 gallons -clear- trash bags. I did some minor research on bagging plants to restore humidity.. I feel safe with it.. I have “a hole “ puncher to put some clean small holes in the clear trash bag, to help regulate a wee bit of air flow.. (no pun intended ) so, why would I share this content instead of making a video? Sharing is caring and caring doesn’t come with greed.. You can this info, and ignore it.. or try it along with me.. I will be bagging my citrus, over winter.. (not in direct sunshine.. that will bake them.. I will start off bagging only at night.. We shall see!

[@florarezai2979]

I liked your video. I have a great tangrin tree. its full of fruits that are still green but growing well. Some leaves got yellow and the tree lost most of its leaves. Fruits are looking good. no new leaves growing at all. I'm in North Cal. Thanks

[@PlantFanatics]

Keep us updated on what works for you!

[@noname__7]

I kept mine inside. I bought it 2 weeks ago, i keep it in my bedroom, it has enough light, the temperature is about 23℃. It has some oranges on it, and lots of flowers. Some of them are yellow before they fall, some of them not. It's a bit to cold outside to keep it outdoor, now. What should be the problem? If i touch the tree, lots of leaves will fall. I have an citrus myrtifolia, also called chinotto. Please help me, i water it only when the soil is dry, what's the problem, i fertilize it too

[@PlantFanatics]

Assuming that you’re actually not overwatering and you’re fertilizing correctly I would say it’s probably a humidity issue. Try spritzing it with water a couple times a day and/or add a humidifier in the room.

[@PlantFanatics]

Also make sure there’s good circulation

[@noname__7]

@@PlantFanatics thank you so much :) you're great

[@damstr8gaming]

Growing a mandarin tree in a vivarium 85 F 70% humidity is there any lighting for the tree it's a year old the lighting I have seem less than it needs per this video it won't grow in this vivarium, that's the only useful thing I gathered here but the lighting market with it's reviews are saturated with people just view grabbing and never did their research I'm fatigue from trying to make this work

[@brittanyjfoskitt1]

I’ve been so sad about my trees I have 3 citrus they are 5 years old and their leaves are ALL dried out and crunchy ☹️

[@PlantFanatics]

Hard for me to help without pictures. You can email pictures to [e-mail]

[@blaynesplantvlog7117]

I made a video on mine to help out with my problem . my orange tree has dropped 5 leaves in one day ... it’s none of the causes in the video... it’s outside... the leaves are dark green like normal and they fell off? I don’t know what to do. It’s not under/overwatering because there still green and not yellow... it’s not pets... not light... I mean it was dry humidity outside for a while and now it’s really humid so maybe that’s is cause but not likely... help I don’t know what to do! It’s it’s a pot as well

[@PlantFanatics]

Hi Blayne! So I just checked out your video, and from my perspective the newest growth on your tree is absolutely chlorotic. Now the root cause of that is either going to be nutrient deficiency or overwatering. Make sure your soil is not too wet, and make sure that you are on a feeding schedule. I don't know what growing zone you're in, but if your citrus tree is outside right now I'd assume its a warmer planting zone. My prognosis is that its either nitrogen deficiency, or the trees roots are too wet. It's not going to die, however. So don't freak out about it. Just get yourself a nice citrus fertilizer and follow the instructions provided, and allow that soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. It's safer to keep it on the dryer side than the wetter.

[@blaynesplantvlog7117]

@@PlantFanatics thanks! Yes I did fertilize it a few days ago... I never thought it could be overwatering but.. it has been rainy so I will make sure the soil drys out.... oh and one more thing.. The newest growth (not new anymore) is yellow and the old growth is normal dark green....and I think it’s a iron deficiency because does iron deficiency causes new growth to yellow and old growth to be unaffected? So I will put some Iron in the soil if that’s the case. What do you think?

[@PlantFanatics]

@@blaynesplantvlog7117 I would say it couldn't hurt! I hope all went well with it. Just remember that it can take time for that citrus tree to show signs of healing, so be patient. Things like this happen and its nothing to worry about. Citrus are resilient so they will replace that old growth rather quickly. Good luck in your growing adventures! If you haven't already subscribe to the channel for my weekly content. Thanks so much!

[@giovannifilangeri1179]

Nicely said basically, now you have five videos to explain how to grow one a healthy one!👍

[@zinatibbetts6897]

Thanks for your info. Go Razorbacks.

[@Oness2024]

Missed out over fertilising

[@PlantFanatics]

Thanks for the comment! We put the most common reasons in this video. It'll almost always be one of the reasons listed in the video before you consider over-fertilization as a cause.

[@bcuriel2010]

Cute

[@snowflakehunter]

The likes were at 666...I had to change that!

[@PlantFanatics]

Thats much appreciated!! haha, Thanks for checking out the video!!

[@JDHILL-rg9sp]

WPS

[@jasonl3309]

Jnj