Pocket Botanist
Check these first
- Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for tiny insects.
- Feel the soil around the base of the tree to see if it is dry.
- Check if the leaves feel sticky from honeydew.
Likely causes
Aphid infestation
Most likelyHow to tell: You will see small green or black insects on the undersides of leaves and a sticky substance called honeydew on the foliage. The leaves often curl or pucker as the aphids feed on the sap.
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 an insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks.
Heat and drought stress
PossibleHow to tell: The leaves look dry and brittle while curling inward to conserve moisture during a heatwave. The soil will feel bone dry several inches down.
What to do: Water the tree deeply by letting a hose run at the base for 30 to 60 minutes. Apply a 3 inch layer of mulch around the base to keep the roots cool and moist.
Find out what's wrong with your common lime
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.
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When to worry
Worry if the curling is accompanied by significant leaf drop or yellowing. It is normal for a few leaves to curl slightly during the hottest part of a summer afternoon.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the tree well watered during dry spells and monitor for early signs of aphids in the spring.
Common lime: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common lime 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 the leaves uncurl once the aphids are gone?
- The leaves that are already curled will likely stay that way for the rest of the season. New growth should appear healthy once the pests are managed.
- Can I use neem oil to fix the curling?
- Yes, neem oil is effective against aphids. Apply it in the early evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Common lime
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.