Will my leaves uncurl once the aphids are gone?

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

Should I prune off the curled leaves?

You can trim off heavily damaged or infested leaves to help the plant focus its energy. Just make sure to use clean shears and dispose of the clippings in the trash.

California blackberry: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for small insects.
Feel the soil to see if it has dried out too much.
Observe if the leaves flatten out once the sun goes down.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the undersides of leaves or on new growth. The leaves may look distorted or sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
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 the bugs are 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: Provide afternoon shade if your plant is in a very hot spot. Ensure you are watering every 5 to 10 days to keep the soil consistently moist.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your california blackberry

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 leaves stay curled even when the plant is well watered and cool. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during a heatwave as a natural defense.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with consistent watering and check it weekly for early signs of pests.

California blackberry: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your california blackberry 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 severely distorted will likely stay that way. However, the new growth should emerge flat and healthy once the pest issue is resolved.
Should I prune off the curled leaves?: You can trim off heavily damaged or infested leaves to help the plant focus its energy. Just make sure to use clean shears and dispose of the clippings in the trash.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my California blackberry leaves curling?