Ivy Leaf Curl and Drop: Aphids, Mites, or Water Stress

"Black ivy" (large-leaf climbing type) repotted; leaves grow, then curl under, dry, fall. Antibacterial soap spray failed.

Pest Check

• Aphids: visible on leaf undersides → curl new growth.
• Spider mites: tap leaf over white paper; moving specks = mites.

Treat either with neem oil (covers insects, mites, fungi). Spray undersides thoroughly.

Water & Transplant Stress

• Curling + drying + drop = underwatering or saucer waterlogging (suffocation).
• Empty saucers after watering.
• Repot only 1 size up; avoid drastic light changes.

Antibacterial soap ≠ insecticidal soap—can burn leaves. Stop using it.

New growth should stabilize in ~1 month post-repot if culture is corrected.