Will my tree die from leaf curl?

Usually no, but it will lose vigor and produce less fruit. Consistent treatment over several years helps the tree recover.

Can I prune off the curled leaves?

Yes, you can remove them to tidy the tree, but it will not cure the infection. The fungus is already inside the tree tissues.

Why are my peach tree leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the new leaves for red, puckered textures.
Look for tiny insects on the underside of curled leaves.
Check the weather history for cool, rainy spells during bud break.

Likely causes

Taphrina deformans fungus
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves appear thickened, crinkled, and turn shades of red or purple before falling off. This happens when cool, wet weather hits during bud break.
What to do: Apply a copper based fungicide spray in late autumn after leaf drop or in very early spring before buds swell. Ensure you coat the entire tree trunk and all branches thoroughly.
Aphid infestation
Possible
How to tell: Leaves curl inward and you may see tiny green or black insects on the undersides. You might also notice sticky honeydew on the leaves.
What to do: Spray the tree with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Focus on the undersides of the leaves where aphids hide.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your peach tree

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

It is serious if the entire canopy is affected, as this weakens the tree significantly. Minor curling on a few leaves is usually manageable.

Stopping it coming back

Apply a preventative fungicide spray every winter while the tree is dormant to stop the fungus from overwintering.

Peach tree: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your peach tree 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

Will my tree die from leaf curl?: Usually no, but it will lose vigor and produce less fruit. Consistent treatment over several years helps the tree recover.
Can I prune off the curled leaves?: Yes, you can remove them to tidy the tree, but it will not cure the infection. The fungus is already inside the tree tissues.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my peach tree leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your peach tree?