Should I remove the curled leaves?

If the leaves are heavily infected with mildew, removing them can help stop the spread. Dispose of them in the trash rather than composting them.

Is my vine dying if the leaves curl?

Not necessarily. If it is just heat stress, the plant is simply protecting itself and will recover with proper watering.

Why are my Muscadine grape leaves curling? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look for a white, dusty substance on the leaf surfaces.
Check if the leaves uncurl when the temperature cools down at night.
Ensure the soil is moist to the touch.

Likely causes

Powdery Mildew
Most likely
How to tell: You will see a white, dusty coating on the leaves that causes them to curl and distort. This fungus thrives in humid, stagnant air.
What to do: Improve air circulation by pruning crowded branches. Apply a neem oil spray or a fungicide labeled for grapes every 7 to 14 days until the infection clears.
Heat Stress
Most likely
How to tell: The leaves curl inward during the hottest part of the day to conserve moisture. They usually flatten out again once the temperature drops in the evening.
What to do: Water the vine deeply every 5 to 10 days to keep the soil consistently moist. Apply a layer of mulch around the base to keep the roots cool.

Curling leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your muscadine grape

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

Temporary curling during a heatwave is normal, but persistent curling with white spots indicates a fungal problem that needs treatment. If the leaves become brittle or brown, the issue is more severe.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the area around the vine clear of debris and ensure good airflow between branches to prevent fungal growth.

Muscadine grape: curling leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your muscadine grape 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

Should I remove the curled leaves?: If the leaves are heavily infected with mildew, removing them can help stop the spread. Dispose of them in the trash rather than composting them.
Is my vine dying if the leaves curl?: Not necessarily. If it is just heat stress, the plant is simply protecting itself and will recover with proper watering.

Guides to these causes

Powdery Mildew

Why are my Muscadine grape leaves curling?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your muscadine grape?