Will my hydrangea grow leaves back?

If the plant is healthy, it will produce new growth once the stressor is removed. It may take a few weeks for the plant to recover.

Is leaf drop a sign of disease?

Usually, leaf drop is a reaction to environmental stress rather than a disease. Check for pests like aphids if the leaves look curled or sticky.

Smooth Hydrangea: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil an inch below the surface.
Inspect the leaves for signs of pests or fungal spots.
Check if the plant is in direct afternoon sun.

Likely causes

Drought stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves will look wilted and crispy before they fall off the stems. This happens when the plant cannot pull enough water from the soil to support its foliage.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until the soil is moist 6 to 8 inches down. Apply a 2 inch layer of mulch around the base to help hold that moisture in the ground.
Heat exhaustion
Possible
How to tell: Leaves may turn brown at the edges and drop during extreme summer heat waves. This is the plant trying to conserve energy when temperatures stay above 90 degrees.
What to do: Provide temporary shade with a cloth or umbrella during the hottest part of the day. Ensure the plant gets a thorough soaking in the early morning to prepare it for the heat.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your smooth 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

It is normal for a few lower leaves to drop in late autumn as the plant prepares for dormancy. Be concerned if the leaf drop is sudden and happens while the plant is actively growing.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and keep the root zone mulched to regulate soil temperature.

Smooth Hydrangea: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your smooth hydrangea and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

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

Questions people ask

Will my hydrangea grow leaves back?: If the plant is healthy, it will produce new growth once the stressor is removed. It may take a few weeks for the plant to recover.
Is leaf drop a sign of disease?: Usually, leaf drop is a reaction to environmental stress rather than a disease. Check for pests like aphids if the leaves look curled or sticky.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why is my smooth hydrangea dropping its leaves?