Why are my curry leaves dry and crispy?

Dry, crispy curry leaves are caused by: underwatering or sudden dry spells — curry leaf trees are thirsty in summer; sun scorch on a south-facing terrace in peak May–June heat; spider mites (check for fine webbing under leaves) — spray neem oil; or iron deficiency causing leaf scorch. Water deeply every day in summer. Move to partial shade in peak heat. Spider mite infestations escalate fast — treat within 3–4 days of spotting webbing.