Sudden Leaf Curl and Fruit Loss in Barbados Cherry: Water, Herbicide, or Fertilizer?

Sudden Leaf Curl and Fruit Loss in Barbados Cherry: Water, Herbicide, or Fertilizer?

6–8 month old Barbados cherry (Acerola) was fruiting well. After a week's vacation, leaves brown/curled, fruit gone. Trunk/branches still tan.

Likely Causes

1. Drought stress: No water while away; plant was accustomed to regular watering.
2. Fertilizer burn: Fertilizer applied before vacation + no water = salt concentration in soil.
3. Herbicide drift: Neighbor's Roundup (glyphosate) application drifted onto plant.

Recovery Attempt

• Organic biostimulant (Atomic Grow): Foliar spray to raise brix, detoxify, stimulate recovery.
• Water deeply and consistently.
• Do not fertilize until new growth is established.

Young tropical fruit trees are sensitive. Automated irrigation or a plant-sitter is essential for vacations.