How to revive curling pink lady apple leaves?

[Jane44]

Could I please get some advice on how to stop my apple tree's leaves from curling? They're not curling the usual way of edges up and in, it's like they simply don't grow straight from the time they appear... For the first 50cm it was fine but now it's about a metre tall the leaves curl under themselves.

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Jane44,

Thank you for your question and welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

Can you see any small insects on your apple tree?
 

It looks like something has been eating your apple tree's leaves which I suspect is a contributing factor to your tree's leaf curl.

If you find any insects, can you upload an image of them? 

This will help us to identify them and recommend a suitable treatment.

You might also like to check out How To Grow And Prune An Apple Tree for some further information.

Allow me to tag @bergs and @Noelle to see if they have any thoughts.

Jacob

[Noelle]

Hi @Jane44 

You5r Pink Lady seems to be one tall stem, without any side branches. This suggests it has not been pruned for shape. It also appears to be growing in a pot - by now it should be planted out in the garden into its permanent growing position, or into a larger tub where it can grow for several years.

If it is in a small pot, then it is probably not getting adequate water and nutrition to develop properly.

The top should also be cut back by about one third to encourage side branching.

[Jane44]

 I did see some little bugs  (aphids?) and sprayed them with an organic bug spray from Bunnings. I originally had the plant inside on my kitchen window but it grew too tall so moved it outside. As soon as I did any new leaf curled. I'm hoping that with the bug spray the bugs will no longer bother my plant. 

[JacobZ]

Hi @Jane44,

Keep an eye on those bugs. What you've already done should work, but if they return you may need to address the issue again.

I'd suggest also following @Noelle's advice to move the plant to a more permanent growing location and prune the tree. Noelle is a much more experienced gardener than myself so her advice should definitely be taken on board.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob