Should I prune off the curled leaves?

You can remove a few heavily infested leaves, but do not strip the tree. The tree needs its leaves to produce energy.

Does heat cause leaf curling?

Yes, trees often curl their leaves to reduce water loss during extreme heat. If they recover at night, it is just a normal reaction to the weather.

European plum: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Unroll a curled leaf to check for aphids.
Check the soil moisture level with your finger.
Observe if the curling happens only during the heat of the day.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves curl inward and become distorted as aphids feed on the sap. You will often find the insects tucked inside the folds of the curled leaf.
What to do: Unroll a few leaves to check for aphids. If found, spray the tree with insecticidal soap or a strong blast of water to dislodge them.
Water stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves may curl or wilt during the hottest part of the day if the tree is not getting enough water. The edges might also feel dry or crispy.
What to do: Check the soil moisture at a depth of 3 to 4 inches. If it is dry, give the tree a deep, slow watering to ensure moisture reaches the root zone.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your european plum

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

Minor curling on a few leaves is usually not a major concern. However, if the entire canopy is curling and the tree looks stunted, you need to address the underlying pest or water issue.

Stopping it coming back

Maintain a consistent watering schedule and monitor the tree weekly for early signs of pests. Keeping the tree healthy makes it much more resistant to problems.

European plum: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european plum 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 prune off the curled leaves?: You can remove a few heavily infested leaves, but do not strip the tree. The tree needs its leaves to produce energy.
Does heat cause leaf curling?: Yes, trees often curl their leaves to reduce water loss during extreme heat. If they recover at night, it is just a normal reaction to the weather.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are the leaves on my European plum curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your european plum?