What Causes African Violet Leaves to Turn Brown & Die?

Older Leaves

• It’s normal for the older, lower leaves to turn brown and die. If you notice a brown leaf before it drops, pinch it off. Plants that aren’t fertilized properly shed older leaves faster than those receiving proper nutrition did. Feed African violets with an African violet plant food according to the package directions, or use a regular houseplant fertilizer mixed at half strength every other week. Do not to splash fertilizer onto the leaves.

Water

• African violet leaves turn brown when wet in the presence of bright light. Avoid wetting the leaves when watering the plant. Use a watering can with a long spout, so that you can reach between the leaves and apply the water directly to the soil. When you need to clean African violet foliage, rinse the leaves in lukewarm water on a warm day, and then place the plant in a shady location until the leaves completely dry. Use a soft, dry paintbrush to gently brush the foliage clean.

Botrytis Blight

• Botrytis blight, caused by the fungus Botrytis cinerea, first appears as lesions on the undersides of leaves. The lesions, which appear to be soaked with water, expand until the entire leaf turns brown. Remove and destroy all affected parts, reduce the humidity and improve air circulation around the plant. Use a fungicide labeled for use against botrytis blight according to the label instructions. Make sure the product you choose is safe to use on houseplants. Botrytis blight often takes hold following mite injury.

Proper Care

• Strong, vigorous plants that receive proper care quickly bounce back from occasional problems. Use potting soil designed for African violets. African violet soils drain more freely than regular commercial potting soils and have acidic pH that is better suited to African violet culture. Repot annually with fresh potting soil. Provide bright, indirect sunlight and temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.