Will my leaves uncurl once the pests are gone?

The leaves that are already severely curled may not fully flatten out again. However, the new growth should emerge healthy and flat once the infestation is cleared.

Can I just cut off the curled leaves?

Yes, you can trim off heavily damaged or distorted leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. Use clean, sharp scissors to avoid spreading any potential disease.

Wild potato: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for tiny insects.
Check the soil moisture to see if the plant is drying out too quickly.
Look for signs of wilting or discoloration on the stems.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the undersides of leaves or near new growth. The leaves often look distorted or sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock the bugs off. Follow up by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil to the leaves every 5 to 7 days until the pests are gone.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward to protect themselves when the air is too hot or dry. You might notice the soil drying out much faster than your usual 3 to 7 day schedule.
What to do: Move your plant to a cooler spot with consistent bright indirect light. Increase the humidity around the plant by placing it on a tray filled with pebbles and water.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your wild potato

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 brown spots, as this indicates a more serious health issue. Minor curling on just one or two leaves is usually just a reaction to a temporary change in environment.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with consistent watering and check it weekly for early signs of pests. Good air circulation helps prevent both insect buildup and fungal issues.

Wild potato: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wild potato 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 pests are gone?: The leaves that are already severely curled may not fully flatten out again. However, the new growth should emerge healthy and flat once the infestation is cleared.
Can I just cut off the curled leaves?: Yes, you can trim off heavily damaged or distorted leaves to keep the plant looking tidy. Use clean, sharp scissors to avoid spreading any potential disease.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my Solanum etuberosum leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your wild potato?