Leaf
Scorched Leaves
Sunburn or severe dehydration causing large dry brown areas
Overview
Extensive leaf browning differs from simple tip burn — it involves most or all of a leaf turning brown and crispy. The most common cause is sunburn: a plant suddenly moved from indoors to direct sunlight, or midday summer exposure, burns leaf tissue unable to handle high light intensity. Severe dehydration also causes rapid leaf desiccation, progressing from older to newer leaves.
Symptoms
Large areas from leaf edges or tips turn brown, papery, and brittle. Sunburn typically occurs on the side facing the light source, with irregular patches of grayish-white or tan discoloration. Dehydration-related browning starts with wilting followed by gradual browning from lower older leaves upward.
Treatment
Sunburned leaves will not recover — trim or remove the damaged portions, retaining any healthy buds on the stem. Relocate the plant to an appropriate light level. For dehydrated plants, immediately submerge the pot in water until fully saturated, then trim unrecoverable leaves to reduce the plant's burden.
Prevention
Acclimate plants gradually when moving them (increase light exposure by 1-2 hours per day). Use shade cloth during intense midday summer sun. Follow the soak-and-dry watering principle. For trips over a week, use automatic drip irrigation or wick watering. Learn each plant's specific light requirements.
