Pest
Aphids
Aphids cluster on tender growth, distort leaves, and leave sticky residue that can lead to more trouble later.
How to confirm it
- Inspect the undersides of new leaves and stems.
- Look for sticky honeydew or ants moving across the plant.
- Check whether distorted growth is concentrated on soft new tissue.
Next Steps
Fixes connected to this cause
Improve airflow
Crowded growth traps humidity and makes some fungal and pest problems harder to manage.
Spray neem oil
Neem oil can help with mild powdery mildew or aphid pressure, but it works best after airflow and spacing are already fixed, not instead of fixing them.