Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?

No, do not fertilize a stressed plant. Wait until it has recovered and shows signs of new growth.

Can heat cause leaf drop?

Yes, extreme heat can cause the plant to drop leaves to conserve water. Provide extra water and consider temporary shade during the hottest part of the day.

Why are my blackberry leaves falling off? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil moisture at a depth of 3 inches.
Inspect the undersides of leaves for signs of pests or fungal spots.
Check if the canes look shriveled or dry.

Likely causes

Drought stress
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves look dry, brittle, or curled before they fall off the canes. The soil feels dusty and dry to the touch several inches down.
What to do: Water your blackberry deeply until the soil is moist 6 to 10 inches down. Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of organic mulch like straw or wood chips to keep the roots cool and retain moisture.
Root rot
Possible
How to tell: Leaves turn yellow or brown and drop while the soil remains consistently soggy or waterlogged. The roots may look mushy or dark instead of firm and white.
What to do: Stop watering immediately and ensure your planting site has excellent drainage. If the plant is in a container, move it to a spot with better airflow and check that the drainage holes are not blocked.

Find out what's wrong with your blackberry

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 older leaves at the base of the plant to yellow and drop in late autumn as the plant prepares for winter. Worry if you see significant leaf loss during the active growing season in spring or summer.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule of every 3 to 7 days during the growing season, especially when fruit is developing.

Keep your blackberry 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

Should I fertilize a plant that is dropping leaves?: No, do not fertilize a stressed plant. Wait until it has recovered and shows signs of new growth.
Can heat cause leaf drop?: Yes, extreme heat can cause the plant to drop leaves to conserve water. Provide extra water and consider temporary shade during the hottest part of the day.

Why are my blackberry leaves falling off?