Is it normal for my grapevine to lose leaves in winter?

Yes, grapevines are deciduous and will naturally drop their leaves as they enter dormancy. This is a healthy part of their life cycle.

Will the leaves grow back?

If the plant is healthy and the cause of the drop is resolved, it will produce new growth in the next growing season. Ensure it gets plenty of light to support this.

Why is my grapevine losing its leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Move the plant to a brighter location if it is in the shade.
Inspect the leaves for any white dusty patches or tiny insects.
Check if the plant has been moved to a new environment recently.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Possible
How to tell: The leaves turn pale or yellow before falling off, starting from the bottom of the vine. This happens when the plant is not getting the full sun it requires.
What to do: Move the vine to a spot that receives direct, full sun for most of the day. If indoors, place it in your brightest south-facing window.
Pest infestation
Possible
How to tell: You see small insects or a dusty coating on the leaves before they drop. Pests like phylloxera can cause significant damage to the foliage.
What to do: Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust or pests. Apply a mild insecticidal soap if you see active insects, following the label instructions carefully.

Find out what's wrong with your grape

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

Worry if the leaf drop is sudden and affects more than a few leaves at once. If the plant is losing leaves during its natural dormancy period in winter, this is normal.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in full sun and monitor the leaves regularly for any signs of pests or fungal growth.

Keep your grape 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

Is it normal for my grapevine to lose leaves in winter?: Yes, grapevines are deciduous and will naturally drop their leaves as they enter dormancy. This is a healthy part of their life cycle.
Will the leaves grow back?: If the plant is healthy and the cause of the drop is resolved, it will produce new growth in the next growing season. Ensure it gets plenty of light to support this.

Why is my grapevine losing its leaves?