Are scale insects harmful to the whole tree?

Yes, if left untreated, they can weaken the tree by draining its sap. This makes the mulberry more susceptible to other diseases and environmental stress.

Should I prune the curled leaves?

You can prune away heavily infested branches to reduce the pest population. Otherwise, focus on treating the insects rather than just removing the leaves.

Why are my white mulberry leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small, stationary bumps.
Check if the leaves uncurl during the cooler evening hours.
Look for sticky residue on the leaves or branches.

Likely causes

Scale insects
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, bump like insects attached to the stems or the undersides of leaves. They suck the sap, causing the leaves to curl and lose their shape.
What to do: Scrub the insects off with a soft brush or apply horticultural oil during the dormant season. For active infestations, use a neem oil spray every 7 to 10 days until they are gone.
Heat stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. They usually flatten out again once the sun goes down.
What to do: Give the tree a deep watering during dry spells to help it handle the heat. Ensure it is getting full sun, but provide extra water if temperatures stay high for more than a week.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your white mulberry

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 curling is accompanied by yellowing or stunted growth, it is a sign of a pest problem that needs attention. Temporary curling during a heat wave is a normal survival mechanism.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the tree healthy and vigorous with proper watering, which makes it less attractive to pests like scale.

White mulberry: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your white mulberry 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

Are scale insects harmful to the whole tree?: Yes, if left untreated, they can weaken the tree by draining its sap. This makes the mulberry more susceptible to other diseases and environmental stress.
Should I prune the curled leaves?: You can prune away heavily infested branches to reduce the pest population. Otherwise, focus on treating the insects rather than just removing the leaves.

Guides to these causes

Scale Insects

Why are my white mulberry leaves curling?