Do pests cause leaf curling on Cherry laurel?

Yes, aphids or mites can cause leaves to curl as they feed on the sap. Check the undersides of the leaves carefully.

Should I remove curled leaves?

If the leaves are heavily damaged or infested, you can prune them off. Otherwise, focus on fixing the underlying cause.

Why are my Cherry laurel leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the undersides of the leaves for tiny bugs.
Check the temperature around the plant.
Feel the soil to see if the plant is thirsty.

Likely causes

Pest infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see small insects or sticky residue on the undersides of the leaves. The leaves may look distorted or puckered.
What to do: Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or use an insecticidal soap. Repeat the treatment every week until the pests are gone.
Temperature stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl during extreme heat or cold snaps. The plant may look generally unhappy or dehydrated.
What to do: Protect the plant from extreme drafts or direct heat sources. Ensure it is well watered during hot spells to help it cope with the temperature.

Find out what's wrong with your cherry laurel

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 during a heatwave is often temporary. Worry if the leaves remain curled for a long time or if you see visible damage from pests.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in a stable environment and inspect the leaves regularly for early signs of pests.

Keep your cherry laurel healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Do pests cause leaf curling on Cherry laurel?: Yes, aphids or mites can cause leaves to curl as they feed on the sap. Check the undersides of the leaves carefully.
Should I remove curled leaves?: If the leaves are heavily damaged or infested, you can prune them off. Otherwise, focus on fixing the underlying cause.

Why are my Cherry laurel leaves curling?