Thickened, puckered, curled and often reddish peach or nectarine leaves are classic signs associated with peach leaf curl.
Why timing matters
Once symptoms appear in spring, management for that infection is generally too late. Preventive decisions are made during the dormant period before susceptible growth emerges.
Don't confuse every curled leaf
Aphids and other problems can also curl leaves, so inspect for insects and look at the characteristic thickened, distorted tissue.
California context
UC IPM lists peach leaf curl as a major peach and nectarine disease in California.
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