The photinia 'Red Robin' impresses with its bright red leaf shoots. If the plant suddenly loses its leaves, there can be various causes. A suitable location and the right care prevent leaf loss.
Both too much and too little water can be the cause when the medlar sheds its leaves
These factors lead to leaf loss:
- dryness
- waterlogging
- permafrost
dryness
Like other varieties of red-leaved glossed medlar, 'Red Robin' is sensitive to drought. Moisture in the soil is important for plants to compensate for water loss. If they don't get water for a long time in the summer months, they shed their leaves. The shrubs conserve energy to survive the sub-optimal conditions.
Regular watering supports the vitality of the plant. Watering occurs when the top layer of soil has dried. In hot months, water profusely. When planting, make sure you have a sheltered spot in the semi-shade. The direct sun combined with warm winds increases water evaporation. A herb-rich undergrowth favors a humid microclimate near the ground. As a result, the water evaporates more slowly from the ground.
waterlogging
The roots of the medlar do not tolerate too wet conditions in the substrate. If the water backs up, the roots will rot. They no longer absorb water, causing the leaves to dry up and fall off. While drought stresses the plant, wetness causes damage.
By choosing the ideal location for your medlar, you prevent waterlogging. 'Red Robin' likes a well-drained substrate. Sandy soil is ideal because the water can seep away easily here. Heavy loamy or clayey substrates hold back the water.
permafrost
Although 'Red Robin' is hardy, prolonged sub-zero temperatures can damage it. In the harsh winter months, the ground freezes in the deeper layers. The roots of the medlar cannot absorb water. The following spring they lose their green leaves. This phenomenon is favored by a sunny location. The winter sun minimizes the water reserves of the leaves.
Water your photinia copiously before winter and look for a semi-shady location. To protect against ground frost, spread brushwood, fir branches or fleece on the ground. Container plants overwinter in a mild and sheltered place. Water these shrubs regularly when the top layer of soil has dried.