Will aphids kill my white meadowsweet?

Usually no, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant and make it look messy. It is best to treat them early.

Can I use neem oil for curling leaves?

Yes, neem oil is effective against aphids. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

White meadowsweet: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for tiny green or black insects.
Check if the soil feels dry to the touch.
Observe if the leaves flatten out again once the sun goes down.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustered on the new growth or the undersides of leaves. The leaves may look distorted or sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water from your garden hose to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week until the population disappears.
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 in the evening, the plant is just managing the heat.
What to do: Ensure the soil stays consistently moist by watering every 5 to 10 days during dry spells. Apply a 2 inch layer of mulch around the base to keep the roots cool.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your white meadowsweet

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. It is normal for leaves to curl slightly during extreme heat waves.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with regular water and avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which attracts aphids.

White meadowsweet: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your white meadowsweet 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 aphids kill my white meadowsweet?: Usually no, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant and make it look messy. It is best to treat them early.
Can I use neem oil for curling leaves?: Yes, neem oil is effective against aphids. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my white meadowsweet leaves curling?