Q.What is wrong with my avocado plant?
I have a 32″ tall avocado plant that I grew from a seed. It became infested with fungus gnats so I re-potted three days ago. The top (new) leaves immediately wilted and the bottom leaves have started to turn brown. I watered once when I re-potted (about a pint and a half). I have been misting the leaves. Is something wrong or is this a normal reaction to re-potting?
Misting the leaves is not necessary. Your avocado plant is in shock from the changed the growing conditions (in this case--repotting). That's why the plant is dropping its leaves. Avocado plants don't like sudden changes. Generally avocado plants don't like inadequate light, too much water (soggy soil), and soil that is too heavy. Make sure that the soil quality you use is spongy, well-drained, and not too wet. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Make sure that the avocado plant is getting sufficient light (at least six hours of sunlight), warmth, and dryness. Resist the urge to water slightly moist soil and do not fertilize. Do nothing more than wait it out for a few months. If you run into another problem with insect pests, then use an insecticidal soap (such as neem oil) very sparingly.
