Will my leaves uncurl once the aphids are gone?

Usually, the affected leaves will remain curled even after the pests are removed. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy and flat.

Can I just cut off the curled leaves?

Yes, you can prune away heavily infested or damaged leaves to help the plant put energy into new, healthy growth. Just make sure to use clean, sharp shears.

European dewberry: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for tiny aphids.
Feel the soil to see if it has dried out completely.
Check if the plant is getting direct, scorching afternoon sun.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustered on the undersides of leaves or near the tips of new growth. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves will look wilted and curl inward during the hottest part of the day, even if the soil is moist. This is a protective response to prevent water loss.
What to do: Provide some afternoon shade using a garden cloth or move the container to a spot with partial shade. Ensure you are watering every 3 to 7 days to keep the soil consistently moist.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your european dewberry

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

Worry if the curling is accompanied by yellowing or stunted growth, as this indicates a severe infestation. Minor curling during a heatwave is normal and usually resolves when temperatures drop.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your dewberry healthy with consistent watering and monitor for pests weekly to catch them before they multiply.

European dewberry: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european dewberry 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 leaves uncurl once the aphids are gone?: Usually, the affected leaves will remain curled even after the pests are removed. Focus on keeping the new growth healthy and flat.
Can I just cut off the curled leaves?: Yes, you can prune away heavily infested or damaged leaves to help the plant put energy into new, healthy growth. Just make sure to use clean, sharp shears.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my European dewberry leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your european dewberry?