What Are the Causes of Brown Crisp Edges on Plant Leaves?

Cultivation Problems

• In some cases, browned leaf edges are caused by problems with plant care. The University of Florida cites a lack of water, excess water and too much fertilizer as causes for brown leaves. Try cutting back on the fertilizer that you give your plant and reconsider how much water you are giving it. During a drought, give your plant more water, and if weather conditions are normal, cut back slightly.

Insect Damage

• Insect damage occurs when insects nest or feed in the plant in question. Leaf hoppers cause crinkled foliage as well as hopper burn, which results in a brown, crisp edge around the leaf. The damage is caused when the insects feed on the plant. As their name implies, the leaf hoppers are capable of hopping from plant to plant, spreading the damage throughout your garden.

Root Damage

• Brown, crisp edges on leaves can indicate that the roots below the surface are damaged. The plant is no longer taking in the nutrients that it needs, causing the plant’s outermost edges to suffer. One of the primary causes of root damage is overwatering, as the constant dampness causes the plant to develop fungal diseases.

Prevention

• Inspect your plants regularly for signs of insects and to make sure that the plants look healthy. Pay attention to the instructions for the specific plants as well as the environment you live in. If the plant is not a native specimen, it will be more fragile and more prone to problems. Water your plants in the early morning, so that they dry out by dark. This prevents fungal infections.