Have you watered? I find that crotons in pots are pretty thirsty critters and mine go like that when they're not watered enough. They respond immediately.

and if you broke quite a few roots as you suggest, you might want to pluck most of the lowest leaves (or else cut them back some) so the plant doesn't have to support both the root regrowth and the leaves.

sea ya
tami

I did water, they are ok in that respect. I will trim off those bottom leaves and see if that helps. Thanks for the quick response:o)

Does anybody have any tips on rooting cuttings. I've done a bunch of schefflera and been successful. I've lost a fair amount of croton seedlings in the past and I am scared to take cuttings. No need to fear I guess, but if you have any experience, it would be great to hear it. I am in Galveston, Tx and crotons grow well here.

I'll bet the root damage was the cause. I'd be careful not to overwater as that may cause rot of remaining roots. I like the idea of taking off some of the lower leaves to reduce transpiration. You could also keep it misted and/or put it in a large, clear bag for a while, to increase humidity. See if that doesn't help.