Do slugs cause leaf curling?

Slugs usually chew holes in the leaves rather than causing them to curl. If you see holes, check for slugs at night.

Will the leaves uncurl once the pests are gone?

The existing leaves will likely stay distorted, but new growth should come in flat and healthy. You can prune off the worst looking leaves once the plant is healthy again.

Why are my sweet violet leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the underside of the curled leaves for pests.
Check if the plant is sitting in a drafty or hot location.
Examine the leaves for any sticky residue.

Likely causes

Aphids or mites
Most likely
How to tell: Leaves look distorted, puckered, or curled inward. You might see tiny bugs or fine webbing on the undersides of the leaves.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove pests. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks to clear the infestation.
Temperature stress
Possible
How to tell: Leaves curl when the plant is placed too close to a heat vent or in direct hot sun. The leaves may feel thin or brittle.
What to do: Move your plant to a cooler spot with partial to full shade. Keep it away from direct airflow from heaters or air conditioners.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sweet violet

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

Curling is serious if it is accompanied by yellowing or stunted growth. Slight curling on very new leaves can sometimes be normal as they unfurl.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in a stable environment away from extreme heat and check the leaves for pests during your regular watering routine.

Sweet violet: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sweet violet 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

Do slugs cause leaf curling?: Slugs usually chew holes in the leaves rather than causing them to curl. If you see holes, check for slugs at night.
Will the leaves uncurl once the pests are gone?: The existing leaves will likely stay distorted, but new growth should come in flat and healthy. You can prune off the worst looking leaves once the plant is healthy again.

Why are my sweet violet leaves curling?