Expert: Justin - 8/23/2007

Question
Hi, I bought my first Dwarf Umbrella Plant 2 weeks ago.  I live in an extremely dry climate at 7200 feet.  I did not re-pot the plant, so it is still in its 10" pot.  I placed it in front of my SE window, so it gets filtered light primarily all day.  I watered it once when I brought it home, and have not watered it since due to the fear I over-watered it.  I spray it with a spray bottle 1x per week.  

The plant's stems and branches are still green and strong.  I have noticed a bit of new growth.  The leaves are primarily green, but some look verigated with yellow.  I thought this was the way they are suppose to look, so not sure I should be concerend they have yellow in them.  I have had daily leaf drop off of about 4-5 leaves.  These leaves vary in color from green, yellow to brown.  I have checked for bugs, and there are none that I see.  The soil is moist with a finger check.  What do you suggest?  What am I doing wrong?  Should the leaves be completely green?

Thank you for your help!

Answer
Hello Kelly,

It doesn't sound like you're doing anything wrong at all. It could simply be the plant adjusting to its new environment. These plants will often drop a lot of their lower leaves as they grow or if some environmental factor changes. If the variegation doesn't look/feel dried out I'd say its just normal variegation. Make sure to let it dry out between waterings and keep an eye on it to make sure theres new growth.

Good luck
Justin