Should I remove curled leaves?

If they are heavily infested with aphids, removing them can help reduce the population. Otherwise, leave them to protect the tree's energy.

Can heat cause leaf curling?

Yes, trees often curl their leaves to reduce water loss during extreme heat. Give your tree a deep soak if the weather has been dry.

Why are my apricot tree leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Unroll a curled leaf to check for insects.
Feel the soil to see if it is dry.
Check if the curling happens mostly on new growth.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves curl inward or become distorted as aphids suck the sap. You will often see the insects tucked inside the folds.
What to do: Use a hose to wash the aphids off the leaves. If the curling is severe, prune away the most damaged tips.
Water Stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves curl and feel dry or brittle during hot, dry spells. The soil will feel very dry to the touch.
What to do: Deeply water your tree every 7 to 14 days. Ensure the soil stays moist but not soggy by checking the top 2 inches of soil.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your apricot

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 widespread and the leaves are turning brown, your tree is under significant stress. Minor curling on a few leaves is usually not a major concern.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and monitor new growth for pests early in the season. Mulching around the base helps keep soil moisture stable.

Apricot: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your apricot 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

Should I remove curled leaves?: If they are heavily infested with aphids, removing them can help reduce the population. Otherwise, leave them to protect the tree's energy.
Can heat cause leaf curling?: Yes, trees often curl their leaves to reduce water loss during extreme heat. Give your tree a deep soak if the weather has been dry.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my apricot tree leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your apricot?