Can I save curled leaves?

Once a leaf is severely curled or distorted, it will not flatten out again. It is better to prune it off so the plant can focus energy on new, healthy growth.

Is curling a sign of underwatering?

Since this plant needs to be constantly wet, any drying out will cause the leaves to curl and wilt. Ensure the water level never drops below the root zone.

Fool's watercress: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for aphids on the stems and leaf undersides.
Check the water for debris or signs of stagnation.
Verify that the plant is not sitting in direct, scorching sun.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Possible
How to tell: Leaves curl inward or become distorted as aphids suck the sap from the plant. You will see small, soft-bodied insects clustered on the stems.
What to do: Wash the plant thoroughly with a gentle spray of water to knock the aphids off. Repeat this every 2 days until the infestation is cleared.
Water Quality Issues
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl and may turn yellow or brown at the edges. This happens when the water is not changed often enough and minerals or waste build up.
What to do: Change the water completely every 1 to 2 days. Ensure you are using fresh, clean water to keep the roots healthy.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your fool's watercress

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

Curling is a sign of stress that needs attention before the plant stops growing. If the leaves are wilting along with the curling, the plant is in immediate need of fresh water.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a strict schedule for changing the water and inspect the plant weekly for any signs of pests.

Fool's watercress: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your fool's watercress 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

Can I save curled leaves?: Once a leaf is severely curled or distorted, it will not flatten out again. It is better to prune it off so the plant can focus energy on new, healthy growth.
Is curling a sign of underwatering?: Since this plant needs to be constantly wet, any drying out will cause the leaves to curl and wilt. Ensure the water level never drops below the root zone.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are the leaves on my Fool's watercress curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your fool's watercress?