Why do my plant's leaves curl up?

In a plant, curling leaves are a cry, an SOS, a bottle to the sea. It's a sign that something isn't quite right, and that it's in danger of dying. So you need to act fast. But before you can intervene, you need to identify the problem that's causing the limbs to curl up. Whether it's watering, light, temperature or fertilization, we explain the possible causes and how to remedy them.

When your Pothos!

Leaves curl when the plant is under stress: lack of water or nutrients, unsuitable temperature, excessive light or pest attack. Leaf curling is a defense mechanism: the plant reduces its exposed surface area to limit evaporation and damage.

Treatment varies depending on the cause of leaf curl. If leaf curl is caused by a lack of water, water more frequently and in greater quantities. Leaves may also curl due to excessive light (in which case you'll need to move the pot away from the window), unsuitable temperature or pest attack, which you'll need to treat.

The leaves of your Monstera may curl due to lack of water, pest attack (thrips, mealy bugs, whiteflies, etc.), too much light or a deficiency. Depending on the problem, adapt watering, move your plant, treat the invasion or add fertilizer.