Question
Hi,

I recently brought home three small "improved" Meyer Lemon trees.  All three were potted in the same pot (when I re-potted them separately, they had lots of root binding).  I've noticed that many of the leaves seem to be folded on themselves, with what looks like the trail of a small worm eating the leaves from the inside.  I haven't actually seen any aphids or worms, but I have removed all the diseased leaves I could find.

Do you know what this problem is and if there's anything I can do to rid the plant of it?  There also don't seem to be any buds on the plant - perhaps these problems are connected?

Many thanks,

Johanna

Portland, Maine

Answer
Hi Johanna,

At this point, I would not stress the plants any further until they recover from transplant shock.  Give the plants some time to adjust to their new environments.  Folding of the leaves can be from environmental causes or can be from insect behavior.  

Monitor the plants over the next several weeks and insure that water and light conditions are adequate.  When you see new vibrant green growth, then they plants have overcome the transplant shock.  At this time, the plants will be more capable of fending off insect predators.  Right now, just provide a good environment for the plants.  

If you are concerned about the "small worms", then you can apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) powder as a preventative. I would not apply harsh pesticides right now.