Sea Grape Leaf Drop After Storms: When to Prune and When to Wait

Storm Leaf Drop Is Normal Stress Response

Sea grapes (Coccoloba uvifera) in Tampa Bay shed leaves after heavy rain/wind. Cold and drought also cause drop. This is not fatal.

Action

• Leave alone until new growth starts.
• Then prune to shape.
• They bounce back if roots are viable.

Why Wait

Pruning now stimulates tender growth that cold or wind will damage. The plant is reallocating resources; let it finish.