How to identify tomato leaf curl
Tomato leaves should be broad and vibrant, but sometimes they take a turn — rolling inward, twisting at the edges or looking oddly crinkled. Leaf curling (or leaf roll) can be puzzling, leaving you wondering whether it’s a sign of trouble or just a temporary setback.
What causes it
Leaf curling is a sign of stress, not disease, and symptoms typically appear first on lower, older leaves. It often shows up as the season shifts from the cooler weather of spring to the hot, dry conditions of summer. During extreme heat, 90 degrees F and above, tomato plants curl their leaves naturally to conserve moisture. Inconsistent watering — too much, too little, or irregular schedules — can also cause leaves to curl as plants struggle to regulate water intake. Indeterminate varieties tend to be more prone to leaf curl than determinate varieties.
How to solve tomato leaf curl
The best ways to prevent leaf curling are consistent watering and planting varieties less prone to leaf curl and heat stress, such as ‘Solar Flare’ or ‘Florida 91’. An application of mulch will help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. And you can provide temporary shade during extreme heat waves (above 90 degrees F) to give plants a break from the intense sun.
You Might Also Like:
Troubleshooting Common Tomato Problems
What Causes Black Spots on Tomato Leaves?
Don't Make These 8 Vegetable Garden Mistakes
