Does my plant need more water if the leaves curl?

Only if the soil is dry. If the soil is damp, curling might be caused by heat stress or poor drainage.

Should I mist the leaves to stop the curling?

Misting does not help much and can encourage powdery mildew. Focus on watering the soil instead.

Why are the leaves on my Artemisia curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Observe the plant during different times of the day.
Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes.

Likely causes

Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl during the hottest part of the day but look better in the morning.
What to do: Ensure the plant has good air circulation to help it cool down. Water deeply in the early morning to help the plant withstand the afternoon heat.
Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves feel thin and curl inward to conserve moisture.
What to do: Water the plant thoroughly until moisture runs out of the drainage holes. Ensure you are watering every 7 to 14 days depending on how fast the soil dries.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your western mugwort

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

If the leaves stay curled even after a thorough watering, the roots may be damaged. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during extreme heat waves as a natural defense.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently moist but never soggy, and provide a spot with excellent airflow.

Western mugwort: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your western mugwort 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

Does my plant need more water if the leaves curl?: Only if the soil is dry. If the soil is damp, curling might be caused by heat stress or poor drainage.
Should I mist the leaves to stop the curling?: Misting does not help much and can encourage powdery mildew. Focus on watering the soil instead.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are the leaves on my Artemisia curling?