Every now and then, even a perfectly healthy Photinia (Red Robin) will drop a few leaves. Usually, it’s just the plant shedding its old foliage to make room for new growth. However, if you notice those vibrant young red leaves falling off, that’s a sign you need to take a closer look.
What’s the deal with the leaf color?
One of the best things about Photinias is their foliage. Depending on the variety, the young shoots come in bright shades of red before turning a deep, glossy green over the summer. In the fall, they might even shift back to a reddish or coppery tone.
If your Photinia is dropping its younger leaves, check the plant for other symptoms. If you see things like black spots, brown leaves, or other discoloration, you might be dealing with pests or diseases.
Why is my Photinia losing leaves?
When young shoots start losing leaves, the culprit is usually a lack of water or nutrients—often caused by root damage or drought stress. Other common issues include general care mistakes or a pest infestation (watch out for Vine Weevils!). You’ll know you have weevils if you see those distinct semi-circular bite marks along the edges of the leaves.
In the spring, don’t rule out frost damage. Interestingly, the plant often isn’t actually frozen; it’s thirsty. Evergreens continue to lose moisture through their leaves even in winter. Make sure to water your Photinia during the colder months, but only on days when the ground isn’t frozen.
How can I save my Photinia?
The first “first aid” step is to give your plant a good soak if the soil feels dry. However, if the soil is already soggy, hold off—too much water can lead to root rot, which will only make things worse. If you do find pests, be sure to treat them with the appropriate organic or chemical controls as soon as possible.
The Quick Rundown:
- Losing some (old!) leaves is totally normal.
- If young leaves are falling off, definitely investigate.
- Possible causes: Drought stress, root issues, care mistakes, or occasionally pests/disease.
- Quick fixes: Deep watering (if dry) and pest control if needed.
Pro Tip: It’s normal for evergreens to swap out old leaves for new ones over time. But if the fresh, new growth is falling off, that’s your cue to step in!
