Causes
There are five primary reasons for leaf curl in citrus plants, with the major ones being virus infestation, improper watering, and imbalanced temperatures. Heavy infestations of leaf miners on the plants can lead to upward curling of the leaves due to their attack on the plant. Additionally, aphids, whiteflies, and mealy bugs can cause leaf curl by extracting sap from the plant, resulting in the leaves curling either upwards or downwards. Furthermore, viral infections can also lead to leaf curl in citrus plants.
Temperatures can also be a contributing factor as increased temperatures can cause the leaves to curl upwards in an effort to prevent moisture loss from the stomata. However, this issue can be regulated if the plant is grown in pots and can be easily moved to a shaded area to avoid extreme heat.
Proper watering is essential to prevent leaf curl. Over-watering the plant can cause leaf curl, so it’s important to water the plant in appropriate amounts to maintain the right moisture balance.
Pests and diseases
To combat pests and diseases, neem oil can be used as it acts as an effective fungicide against various types of diseases and provides control over pests. Regular application of neem oil can help protect citrus plants from infections and maintain healthier foliage.
By addressing these factors and ensuring proper care, citrus leaf curl can be minimized, allowing the plants to thrive and produce healthy fruits.
