Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Look closely at the undersides of the leaves for small bugs.
- Check for yellow spots or fuzzy growth on the leaves.
- Verify that the plant is getting enough direct sunlight.
Likely causes
Aphid Infestation
Most likelyHow to tell: You see small green or black insects clustering on the undersides of leaves. The leaves may look sticky or develop a black sooty mold.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water to knock the aphids off. If the problem persists, apply insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until the insects are gone.
Downy Mildew
PossibleHow to tell: Leaves show yellowing patterns and stunted growth, eventually falling off as the infection spreads. This happens most often in very damp or humid conditions.
What to do: Remove and destroy all infected foliage immediately to stop the spread. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry.
Find out what's wrong with your hops
The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
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When to worry
Worry if the leaf drop is rapid and affects the entire vine. It is normal for the very oldest leaves at the base of the plant to yellow and drop as the vine grows taller.
Stopping it coming back
Monitor the plant weekly for pests and ensure it has plenty of space for air to move through the vines.
Keep your hops healthy from here
Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Can I save a plant with downy mildew?
- You can manage it by pruning affected parts and keeping the foliage dry. It is difficult to eliminate entirely once established.
- Do aphids kill hop plants?
- They can weaken the plant significantly and reduce your harvest. Treat them as soon as you see them to prevent damage.
More problems with Hops
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.