Is my dogwood dying if the leaves curl?

Not necessarily. It is often just a temporary reaction to heat or dry soil.

Can I use neem oil for the aphids?

Yes, neem oil is effective, but apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Why are my Common dogwood leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Feel the soil to see if it is dry.
Check the undersides of leaves for tiny insects.
Observe if the leaves uncurl at night.

Likely causes

Heat stress
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day but look normal again by morning. This is a natural defense against moisture loss.
What to do: Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base to keep roots cool. Ensure the plant gets deep watering every 7 to 14 days.
Aphid infestation
Possible
How to tell: You will see the leaves curling or puckering, often with sticky residue on the surface. Look closely at the undersides of leaves for tiny green or black insects.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water to knock the pests off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common dogwood

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 leaves stay curled even after a deep watering or during cool, cloudy weather. If the leaves are also yellowing or brittle, the plant is in distress.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain consistent soil moisture and provide a layer of mulch to protect the root zone from temperature spikes.

Common dogwood: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common dogwood 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.

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Questions people ask

Is my dogwood dying if the leaves curl?: Not necessarily. It is often just a temporary reaction to heat or dry soil.
Can I use neem oil for the aphids?: Yes, neem oil is effective, but apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my Common dogwood leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your common dogwood?