Dropping limbs indicates that the plant is under significant stress and often involves issues occurring at the roots of the plant. Check that the plant has the right growing conditions for strong roots and vigorous health:

• Strong, unblocked, south-facing sunlight daily so that the plant is able to use the water in the soil to photosynthesize (or generous artificial light at a safe but effective distance from the plant).
• A terracotta container with a drain hole and a run off dish that is emptied after watering. The container should be no larger than is necessary and should have fast-draining soil.
• Review watering instructions in our Guide to African Milk Tree and make sure that you are adjusting water frequency for the low levels of light in winter.
• High humidity or lack or air circulation can keep soil excessively damp for extended periods.

These damp soil injuries can lead to plant death if not corrected quickly. Examine the roots and stem of the plant gently looking for healthy, firm tissue. If roots or stem have become largely slimy, soft or mushy, the plant is unlikely to survive.

For more care and troubleshooting information, see our Guide to African Milk Tree.

Courtesy of NYBG Plant Information Service