Will the leaves grow back?

If the roots are healthy, the plant will likely push out new leaves once the stress is resolved. Give it time to recover.

Does this plant flower?

Yes, climbing hydrangeas produce beautiful white lacecap flowers in early summer. They need a mature plant and good light to bloom well.

Climbing hydrangea: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture level.
Smell the soil for any signs of rot.
Inspect the base of the plant for any physical damage.

Likely causes

Severe Drought
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves turn yellow or brown and fall off after a long period without water.
What to do: Give the plant a deep, slow soak to rehydrate the root ball. Ensure the soil stays moist for the next few weeks to help it recover.
Root Rot
Possible
How to tell: The leaves drop while still looking somewhat green, and the soil smells sour or stays wet for too long.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and check the drainage of your site. If the soil is waterlogged, you may need to amend it with organic matter or improve the drainage.

Find out what's wrong with your climbing hydrangea

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.

When to worry

If the plant is losing leaves in the middle of the growing season, it is a sign of stress. It is perfectly normal for the plant to drop all its leaves in late autumn as it goes dormant.

Stopping it coming back

Ensure the plant is in well draining soil and follow a consistent watering schedule.

Keep your climbing hydrangea 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.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will the leaves grow back?: If the roots are healthy, the plant will likely push out new leaves once the stress is resolved. Give it time to recover.
Does this plant flower?: Yes, climbing hydrangeas produce beautiful white lacecap flowers in early summer. They need a mature plant and good light to bloom well.

Why is my climbing hydrangea losing its leaves?