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Hey guys! I recently got a new ginseng bonsai, she’s really tiny.… | Bonsai Matters | Planta community

Lauren

Hey guys! I recently got a new ginseng bonsai, she’s really tiny. I’ve noticed that she has been having some leaves fall off :(. We are starting to get into winter in Canada, so I was wondering if this either would have something to do with the temperature or sunlight? She has been placed about 5 inches away from a south facing window, and since I felt like it might be because of the cold I’ve put her on a wool scarf beside 2 of my other plans (both of which seem to be doing fine) and I’ve bought a grow light in case which should come in tomorrow. I’ve also read about new environment stressors so not sure if this is just her adapting. If anyone has any advice I’d love to hear!

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5 comments

  1. Waspinator

    It's normal for ficus to drop leaves on a regular basis as old leaves age out and get replaced by new. If a lot of leaves drop all at once, that's a concern, but if it's just a handful of leaves periodically with signs that new ones are coming it correctly, it's fine

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    • Lauren

      There were about 20 that have fallen off since last week. Some are dead leaves but some look to be healthy. Do you think I should be concerned?

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    • Waspinator

      In that case it's probably just annoyed from a combo of cooler temperatures and fewer hours of light. You're already doing what you should be for that, though. Other than that, the soil looks a bit dry. Protect it from temperatures under 50°F (ideally it wants 60-70°F, and it can briefly handle as low as 40° as long as it's only a night or two)

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  2. Trevor

    Be concerned I’m going through the same thing. I’m in Canada too

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  3. Alex :)

    Leaf drop is really common when a ginseng ficus adjusts to a new home or lower winter light! Try keeping it in steady warmth away from cold drafts, use your grow light 10–12 hours a day, and make sure the soil stays slightly moist but never soggy. A humidity tray helps a lot too, it’ll bounce back once it settles!

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