Why Your Lemon Tree’s Leaves Are Curling

In your lemon tree, you may have noticed at some point that its leaves are curling. It’s not uncommon, but it is an early sign the tree is distressed. Curling lemon tree leaves are caused by environmental factors, maintenance errors, insect pests and diseases.

Reasons of Curling

For the first sign of curling leaves on a lemon tree, check for soil moisture. If hydration is adequate you may have an insect problem or nutrient deficiency. Take steps early to correct the problem before it impacts roots.

• Insufficient Watering

Watering is the most common cause of edges or tips of leaves curling toward the middle. Lemons trees require a good amount of water and thrive better with deep watering once or twice a week. Potted plants need to be watered more often. Check for soil moisture in your potted lemon tree with your finger or a moisture meter. If soil is dry more than 2 inches below the surface, give the tree a good soaking until water runs through the pot’s drainage holes. Avoid using clay pots which leach moisture from soil.

• Temperature Problem

Lemon trees are hardy in USDA zones 8 through 11. Frost damage happens when temperatures drop below 29 degrees F. When low temperatures are forecast, give in-ground trees a thorough watering to protect roots from moisture loss. Prevention is the best protection against temperature problem. To prevent damage from extreme heat, add a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around your tree. Remember to keep it from contacting the bark, which can lead to insect and disease problems. Move potted plants out of direct sunlight and keep soil moist.

• Pests

Pests cause curling and cupping especially on new growth and leaves of lemon tree behind a sticky substance call honeydew. The Asian Citrus psyllid leaves a white, waxy filament on distorted leaves. Treat with a strong of water or apply a mild soap solution in cases of infestation. Use similar treatment for psyllids or spray with insecticide. Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale are particular problems for potted plants grown indoors. Treat both indoor and outdoor lemon trees with neem oil or another horticultural oil.

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