Will my rose grow new leaves?

Yes, if you address the cause of the drop, the plant will push out new growth once it recovers. It may take a few weeks to see signs of life.

Should I fertilize a rose that is losing leaves?

No, wait until the plant is healthy again. Fertilizing a stressed plant can cause further damage to the roots.

Why is my French rose losing its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for aphids.
Check the soil moisture level with your finger.
Look for signs of black spot fungus on remaining leaves.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or pink insects on new growth and flower buds. They suck the sap, causing leaves to yellow and fall off.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Extreme heat stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves may turn crispy or yellow before dropping during prolonged heat waves. The soil will likely be bone dry.
What to do: Increase your watering frequency to every 3 days during peak summer. Apply a 2 inch layer of mulch around the base to keep the roots cool.

Leaf drop in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your french rose

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

A few leaves dropping in late autumn is normal as the plant prepares for dormancy. If it happens in midsummer, you need to act quickly.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your rose well watered and inspect the new growth weekly for early signs of pests.

French rose: leaf drop? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your french rose 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 rose grow new leaves?: Yes, if you address the cause of the drop, the plant will push out new growth once it recovers. It may take a few weeks to see signs of life.
Should I fertilize a rose that is losing leaves?: No, wait until the plant is healthy again. Fertilizing a stressed plant can cause further damage to the roots.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why is my French rose losing its leaves?