Hello guys, I just joined. This place looks really friendly and helpful. I've got a question about my plumbago that I recently purchased at my local nursery where I used to work. This is the annual plumbago, which can be kept inside as a houseplant. I recently brought it indoors because it's getting cooler around here already. The problem is, I am already noticing that recently bloomed flowers (even barely opened up ones) are falling off for no reason. I've been keeping it watered. Any thoughts? Thanks for your time! Zach
Hi Zach, welcome to the Stew. If your plant wasn't exposed to any cold nights, then possibly it is just suffering "shock" from the change of environment. Some plants are very sensitive to even minor changes in light, humidity and temperature levels and often show their displeasure at being moved by dropping flowers, buds and foliage, until they adjust to their new location. Plumbago will want a bright, sunny room. In the late winter, you can prune the stems back to encourage new growth for the coming season. Also be careful not to over-water, your plant may need less water now that it is indoors. Watch for whiteflies, spider mites and mealy bugs on indoor Plumbago.
Thanks for the reply zuzu, I hope that it is only experiencing shock, and that it isn't going to die on me! To be honest, it has gotten worse. It tried to produce a new set of flowers, but before they opened, parts of the plant wilted as if it needed water. Now most of the leaves and buds are drooping. I checked the soil, and it is still damp, so I guess it's not a water issue. Do you know of anything I can do to reduce this shock? Will it kill it, or should I just wait it out? Thanks again, Zach
