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hairy vetch · Vicia villosa

Why are my hairy vetch leaves curling?

It is less common for hairy vetch to have curling leaves, as it is generally quite hardy. This symptom usually means the plant is dealing with a pest infestation or extreme heat stress.

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curling leaves on a plant
Photo: Freshclover, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of the curled leaves for tiny insects.
  2. Check the soil moisture level to see if the plant is thirsty.
  3. Monitor the plant during the cooler morning hours to see if the leaves uncurl.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Possible

    How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects clustering on the undersides of leaves or along the stems. The leaves may curl or pucker where the aphids are feeding.

    What to do: Spray the affected areas with a strong stream of water to knock the aphids off. If the infestation is heavy, apply insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

  2. Heat Stress

    Possible

    How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. The plant usually recovers once the temperature drops in the evening.

    What to do: Ensure the soil remains moist by watering every 7 to 14 days during dry spells. Adding a light layer of mulch around the base can help keep the roots cool.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your hairy vetch

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

If the leaves remain curled even when the plant is well watered and the air is cool, you likely have a pest issue. Temporary curling during a hot afternoon is normal behavior.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with consistent watering and check the leaves regularly for early signs of aphids.

Hairy vetch: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your hairy vetch 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

Are aphids harmful to my vetch?
Aphids can weaken the plant by sucking out sap and may spread viruses. It is best to manage them as soon as you spot them.
Does hairy vetch need a lot of water?
Once established, it is quite drought tolerant. However, during extreme heat, a deep watering every 7 to 14 days will keep it happy.

Guides to these causes

More problems with hairy vetch

Back to the hairy vetch guide

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.