Should I mist the leaves to stop the curling?

Misting does not help much and can encourage fungal issues. It is better to water the soil properly.

Will the leaves uncurl once I water them?

If the damage is just from thirst, they should recover within a few hours. If the edges have turned brown and crispy, those parts will not uncurl.

Why are my Geranium molle leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Touch the soil to see if it is bone dry.
Observe the plant during the hottest part of the day.
Check if the plant is in direct, scorching sun.

Likely causes

Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward to conserve moisture when the temperature is too high. This often happens during the hottest part of the afternoon.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with partial shade during the peak heat of the day. Ensure it has enough water to stay hydrated during hot spells.
Underwatering
Possible
How to tell: The leaves feel thin and papery, and the edges begin to curl or crisp up. The soil will be completely dry and pulling away from the sides of the pot.
What to do: Give the plant a thorough watering until water runs out of the drainage holes. Maintain a consistent schedule of checking the soil every 3 to 7 days.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your dovefoot cranesbill

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 curling is accompanied by browning or brittle edges that do not recover after watering. Minor curling during a heatwave is a normal defense mechanism.

Stopping it coming back

Provide consistent moisture and protect the plant from extreme afternoon sun to keep the foliage flat and happy.

Dovefoot cranesbill: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your dovefoot cranesbill 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

Should I mist the leaves to stop the curling?: Misting does not help much and can encourage fungal issues. It is better to water the soil properly.
Will the leaves uncurl once I water them?: If the damage is just from thirst, they should recover within a few hours. If the edges have turned brown and crispy, those parts will not uncurl.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Geranium molle leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your dovefoot cranesbill?