Will my curled leaves straighten out?

If the curling was caused by heat stress, they will often straighten out once the plant is hydrated and the temperature cools. If the damage was caused by aphids, the existing leaves may remain distorted even after the pests are removed.

Should I prune off the curled leaves?

You can remove severely distorted leaves to improve the look of the plant, but do not remove too many at once. Focus on treating the underlying cause first so the new growth comes in healthy.

Why are my French rose leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for small insects.
Check the soil moisture level by sticking your finger 2 inches into the dirt.
Observe if the leaves uncurl once the sun goes down or the temperature drops.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or pink insects on the undersides of leaves or near flower buds. The leaves often curl inward and look distorted as the aphids suck the sap.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water from your hose to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil directly to the affected areas every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture, but they usually perk back up by evening. If they stay curled even when temperatures drop, the plant is likely dehydrated.
What to do: Ensure you are watering deeply at the base every 3 to 7 days to keep the root zone moist. Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base to help the soil retain water during intense heat.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your french rose

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

You should worry if the leaves remain curled permanently or if you see significant yellowing and leaf drop. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during the hottest afternoon hours as a temporary defense mechanism.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your rose healthy and vigorous with consistent deep watering and regular monitoring for pests. A strong, well fed plant is much better at resisting both heat stress and insect attacks.

French rose: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your french rose 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

Will my curled leaves straighten out?: If the curling was caused by heat stress, they will often straighten out once the plant is hydrated and the temperature cools. If the damage was caused by aphids, the existing leaves may remain distorted even after the pests are removed.
Should I prune off the curled leaves?: You can remove severely distorted leaves to improve the look of the plant, but do not remove too many at once. Focus on treating the underlying cause first so the new growth comes in healthy.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my French rose leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your french rose?