Symptoms
- check_circleBrowning or scorched leaf tips and margins
- check_circleStunted or wilted growth despite moist soil
- check_circleWhite or crusty salt deposits on soil surface or pot
- check_circleDark, mushy, or damaged roots
- check_circleSudden leaf drop
Causes
- arrow_rightFeeding more often or more concentrated than recommended
- arrow_rightFertilising a stressed, dormant, or unhealthy plant
- arrow_rightPoor drainage allowing salts to accumulate instead of flushing out
- arrow_rightApplying fertiliser to dry soil, concentrating salts against roots
How to Diagnose
Brown, crispy leaf tips and margins combined with a visible white or crusty salt buildup on the soil surface or pot rim points to over-fertilization, particularly after a recent increase in feeding.
Treatment
Stop fertilising immediately and flush the soil thoroughly with plenty of plain water to leach out excess salts. Remove severely damaged leaves and repot in fresh soil if roots are badly affected.
Prevention
Follow label dilution rates, feeding at half-strength if unsure. Fertilise only during active growth and ensure pots have good drainage so excess salts can flush through with regular watering.
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