The circular leaves are probably the most impressive feature of the Pilea. But what if the plant loses this of all things? We will explain possible causes and care mistakes and give helpful tips for treatment and prevention.
Incorrect care or a wrong location are often the reason for a leaf loss of the Pilea
causes
Although the Ufo plant is one of the easy-care indoor plants, certain care mistakes lead to leaf loss. The three most common grievances are presented below.
Wrong location
Ufo plants love sunny, warm locations. If you choose a place that is too dark, the plants will produce too little energy due to a lack of light, which is important for photosynthesis. The undersupply of glucose causes leaf loss.
dry substrate
Initially, the leaves take on a yellow color, progressively wither or hang limp down the shoots. A short time later the leaves fall off completely. These symptoms indicate that the substrate is too dry. Fortunately, the cause is quickly remedied: pot your Pilea in fresh potting soil and make sure you water it regularly.
Wrong watering behaviour
But be careful, don't be too liberal when watering. Waterlogging also causes leaf loss. Curling leaves are a clear sign that the soil is too wet. The foliage does not even turn yellow or brown, but also falls off in the green state.
Waterlogging causes root rot on the pilea. If the underground part of the plant dies, the leaves can no longer be adequately supplied with nutrients. The shedding of leaves is the only way for the plant to keep at least the shoots alive.
diseases as a cause?
If the UFO plant loses its leaves, there is no need to worry. The plant is considered to be extremely resistant to diseases. Only spider mites or the red spider like to settle on the houseplant. However, they do not cause any great damage to the Pilea, which manifests itself in leaf loss. It is better to check whether you are caring for your houseplant in a species-appropriate manner.
tips
If your UFO plant has lost a lot of leaves due to a care mistake, it is worth pruning the long shoots. Although the Pilea loses its visual appeal at first glance, a tapering cut stimulates growth. Look forward to densely branched growth in the coming months.