Dead Nandina??

[sanzfrancisco]

I have NO idea what I did or didn't do to this poor plant. It was growing very nicely in my garden, and getting a tinge of color last month, and all of a sudden it started losing leaves, and now looks like this. (photo) Please help me figure this out, and let me know if there is something I can do to fix it.
I feel like a numbskull. (To use one of my father's favorite descriptions.)
Many thanks,
janice

 

[Marck]

It doesn't look dead, but it may be stressed. Nandina domestica is deciduous, often only semi-deciduous in mild climates, so some of this may be seasonal.
Still, double-check the drainage and watering frequency in the container. A container-grown Nandina will want regular moisture but good drainage, less in Winter, especially if almost leafless.
I would also put a thin layer of fresh potting soil on the soil surface, being sure to fill in those gaps between the rootball and the container. Plan to fertilize in late Winter.

 

[sanzfrancisco]

Thank you SO much! I was hoping the condition was seasonal, or at least not deadly. I keep the plant moist, and the drainage is good. With any luck it will come back to life.
Thanks again!!