Should I mist my rhododendron to stop the curling?

No, misting does not help with curling leaves. Focus on deep watering the soil instead.

Will my leaves ever uncurl?

Yes, they will uncurl once the environmental stress, like freezing cold or drought, is resolved.

Pontic rhododendron: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Check the soil moisture with your finger.
Look at the outdoor temperature to see if it is freezing.
Inspect the undersides of the leaves for signs of pests.

Likely causes

Extreme Cold Stress
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves roll inward tightly like a cigar during freezing weather to protect themselves. This is a natural defense mechanism for rhododendrons.
What to do: Do nothing, as the leaves will uncurl once the temperature rises above freezing. Ensure the plant is well watered before the first hard frost of the season.
Severe Dehydration
Possible
How to tell: The leaves look dull and curl inward even when temperatures are mild. The soil will feel bone dry several inches down.
What to do: Water the plant deeply until water runs out of the drainage holes. Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch around the base to help the soil retain moisture.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your pontic rhododendron

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 leaves stay curled during warm, moist weather, your plant may be suffering from root damage. Normal curling is just a temporary reaction to cold or dry spells.

Stopping it coming back

Keep a consistent watering schedule and maintain a thick layer of organic mulch to keep the root zone cool and moist.

Pontic rhododendron: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your pontic rhododendron 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 mist my rhododendron to stop the curling?: No, misting does not help with curling leaves. Focus on deep watering the soil instead.
Will my leaves ever uncurl?: Yes, they will uncurl once the environmental stress, like freezing cold or drought, is resolved.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Rhododendron ponticum leaves curling?