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Why are my peony leaves curling?
- 29 January 2026
Peonies are known for their lush foliage and strong, healthy growth, so it can be worrying when their leaves start to curl. Curling peony leaves are a common issue and can have several causes, ranging from environmental stress to pests or nutrient imbalance. Identifying the cause is key to restoring your plant’s health. In this blog, we explain the most common reasons why peony leaves curl and what you can do to prevent or fix the problem.
This blog in short
- Leaf curling is often caused by weather stress, pests or watering issues
- Aphids and thrips are common culprits, especially in spring
- Proper sunlight, soil conditions and nutrition help prevent problems
- Early identification keeps peonies healthy and flowering well
Common causes of curling peony leaves
Peony leaves may curl upward, inward or appear distorted depending on the underlying issue. Below are the most frequent causes gardeners encounter.
1. Weather stress and temperature changes
Sudden changes in temperature, especially in spring, can cause young peony leaves to curl. Cold nights followed by warm days may temporarily affect leaf development. Strong winds can also stress the plant and lead to curling or twisted foliage.
In most cases, weather-related leaf curling resolves itself once conditions stabilise.
2. Water stress: too much or too little
Both overwatering and underwatering can cause peony leaves to curl.
- Too little water can lead to curling as the plant tries to conserve moisture.
- Too much water may suffocate roots, reducing their ability to absorb nutrients and water properly.
Peonies prefer evenly moist, well-drained soil. Prolonged wet conditions are especially harmful.
3. Pests such as aphids or thrips
Small insects are a very common reason for curled peony leaves, particularly in spring.
- Aphids feed on young growth and cause leaves to curl, wrinkle or distort.
- Thrips damage leaf tissue, which can result in curling and silvery streaks.
Check the undersides of leaves and new shoots carefully. Sticky residue or visible insects are clear signs of pest activity.
4. Nutrient imbalance
A lack of essential nutrients, or an excess of nitrogen, may cause abnormal leaf growth. Too much nitrogen often results in lush but weak foliage that curls or bends easily, while deficiencies can lead to poor leaf development. Balanced fertilisation supports strong stems and healthy leaves.
5. Disease or fungal pressure
Although less common, certain fungal diseases can affect leaf shape. Curling combined with discolouration, spotting or stunted growth may indicate disease pressure, especially in humid conditions with poor air circulation.
How to recognise the cause of curling leaves
Observing the pattern and timing of leaf curling can help identify the cause.
| Possible sign | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Curling on young leaves in early spring | Temperature stress or aphids |
| Curling with sticky residue | Aphids |
| Curling during dry periods | Lack of water |
| Curling with yellowing or weak growth | Nutrient imbalance |
| Curling with spots or discolouration | Disease or fungal issues |
Early detection makes correction much easier.
How to prevent curling peony leaves
Healthy growing conditions are the best prevention. The following practices help prevent curling peony leaves:
- Plant peonies in a sunny location with good air circulation
- Ensure well-draining soil and avoid waterlogged areas
- Water deeply but not too frequently
- Inspect plants regularly for pests, especially in spring
- Apply fertiliser in moderation, avoiding excess nitrogen
Strong, well-maintained plants are far less likely to develop leaf problems.
Curling leaves don’t have to ruin your peonies
In many cases, curled peony leaves are a temporary response to stress and do not affect flowering long-term. By identifying the cause early and adjusting care where needed, your peonies can quickly return to healthy growth and continue to perform beautifully in the garden.
Groot & Groot: order peonies in bulk
Would you like more advice on peony care, or are you curious about the availability and prices of our peonies or peony roots? Feel free to contact us. Groot & Groot supplies peony flowers and peony cuttings in wholesale quantities. We supply worldwide to professional growers and (export) wholesalers. At Groot & Groot, we are able to grow peonies all year round, so we are not seasonal. You can email us at info@grootgroot.nl
or call us at 0228-208050. We would be happy to help you.
