Will my leaves uncurl once the aphids are gone?

The leaves that are already badly curled will likely stay that way. However, the new growth should emerge flat and healthy once the pest issue is resolved.

Does my salmonberry need more water if the leaves curl?

If the soil feels dry to the touch, then yes, it needs more water. Always aim to keep the soil evenly damp but never soggy.

Why are my salmonberry leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for small insects.
Check the soil moisture level to see if it feels dry.
Observe if the leaves recover after the sun goes down.

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 the tips of new stems. The leaves often look distorted or sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock the aphids off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks until the population is gone.
Heat stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. If they perk back up at night, the plant is just trying to stay cool.
What to do: Move your salmonberry to a shadier spot if it is getting too much direct afternoon sun. Ensure you are watering every 3 to 7 days to keep the soil consistently damp.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your salmonberry

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

Be concerned if the curling is accompanied by yellowing or if the plant stops putting out new growth. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly when the plant is adjusting to a new, warmer location.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your salmonberry in a cool, shady spot and monitor the new growth regularly for early signs of pests.

Salmonberry: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your salmonberry 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 leaves uncurl once the aphids are gone?: The leaves that are already badly curled will likely stay that way. However, the new growth should emerge flat and healthy once the pest issue is resolved.
Does my salmonberry need more water if the leaves curl?: If the soil feels dry to the touch, then yes, it needs more water. Always aim to keep the soil evenly damp but never soggy.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my salmonberry leaves curling?