Will my tree die if the leaves curl?

Usually no, as long as you address the underlying cause like pests or drought. The tree is simply reacting to environmental stress.

Should I prune off the curled leaves?

It is better to leave them alone unless they are completely brown and dead. The tree still uses the green parts of the leaves to produce energy.

Little-leaf linden: curling leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for tiny insects.
Check the soil moisture level by digging 3 inches down near the drip line.
Look for sticky honeydew on the leaves or the ground below the tree.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the undersides of leaves and a sticky substance called honeydew on the foliage. The leaves may look puckered or curled where the aphids are feeding.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water from your garden hose to knock the aphids off. If the infestation is heavy, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the label instructions. Repeat the treatment every 7 days until the insects are gone.
Heat stress
Possible
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. If the soil is dry and the tree looks wilted, heat is the culprit.
What to do: Water the tree deeply at the base to ensure the soil is moist 6 to 12 inches down. Apply a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch around the base to keep the roots cool. Avoid watering during the heat of the day to prevent evaporation.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your little-leaf linden

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 significant leaf drop or yellowing. Minor curling during a heatwave is normal and usually resolves once the temperature drops.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your tree healthy with consistent deep watering during dry spells and monitor for early signs of pests. A well watered tree is much more resistant to stress.

Little-leaf linden: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your little-leaf linden 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 tree die if the leaves curl?: Usually no, as long as you address the underlying cause like pests or drought. The tree is simply reacting to environmental stress.
Should I prune off the curled leaves?: It is better to leave them alone unless they are completely brown and dead. The tree still uses the green parts of the leaves to produce energy.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are my Little-leaf linden leaves curling?