What to do if the azalea leaves turn black and burn
This article introduces how to deal with blackened and burned azalea leaves, as well as the causes and solutions for the browning edges of azalea leaves. Below, the editor provides a detailed explanation for you.
Many people keep azaleas at home. As summer approaches, many people's azaleas are showing signs of leaf tip burn and blackened leaves. What is the reason for this? Today, I will discuss the reasons for the burnt and blackened appearance. If you notice these issues during maintenance, proper analysis can lead to timely solutions.
1. Excessive sunlight
Azaleas are light-loving plants, but they are sensitive to direct sunlight, especially in summer when the midday sun is very strong. If the watering is not thorough, only the surface of the soil is watered or the bottom is very dry, and you are unaware of the soil's dryness, the leaf tips may become scorched due to slight soil dehydration under strong sunlight. If the lack of water is not detected and the leaves wilt before watering, the leaves may also turn black and burn. Please be careful.
2. Root suffocation and rot
Most azaleas are kept indoors. If the soil does not dry out for a long time after watering, the initial symptom is root suffocation. After root suffocation, a few leaves may show blackened and scorched tips, which is normal. If detected, immediate action is required. If left unattended, the roots may rot, leading to a large area of blackened and scorched leaves, eventually causing the entire plant to die. Therefore, when caring for azaleas indoors, water appropriately and do not water when the soil is still wet. Generally, water when the soil surface is dry and maintain a proper watering frequency to keep the leaves green and prevent root rot.
3. Poor ventilation
Azaleas enjoy high humidity, but if frequently sprayed with water in a poorly ventilated environment, the water droplets on the leaves may not completely dry, eventually leading to leaf rot. After the leaves rot, they will turn black and burn when exposed to light. Therefore, azaleas should be kept in a well-ventilated area, near a window or periodically use a fan to improve air circulation. Only then can you increase humidity without causing leaf problems or the entire plant rotting.
What to do if the azalea leaves turn black and burn
4. Fertilizer burn
Some gardeners continuously spray fertilizer on their plants based on others' advice, especially during the growing season of azaleas. If you spray high-nitrogen fertilizer, it can cause leaf burn, which is irreversible. Therefore, be careful. If you frequently spray fertilizer, this method is not advisable. Instead, water normally and let the roots absorb the nutrients from the soil, which will then supply the plant to grow new buds and leaves.
The leaves absorb fewer nutrients when their pores are open. Spraying fertilizer directly on the leaves is a waste and can cause leaf burn. If leaf burn occurs, it is evident with black spots on the leaves, which can be noticed the day after spraying. If detected, promptly rinse with water several times, and new leaves will replace the old ones later.
If you enjoy growing azaleas but struggle to do so, be especially careful in summer and in other seasons as well. Caring for azaleas is simple: ensure good ventilation, moderate sunlight, avoid midday sun, provide about 50% shade in summer, and regularly increase humidity in a well-ventilated environment. Use soil with good drainage and a small pot. Water when the soil surface is dry, and fertilize regularly to ensure healthy growth. Pruning azaleas is usually done after flowering in spring. Avoid pruning at other times to ensure flowering in the following year.
The above shares on how to deal with blackened and burned azalea leaves, as well as the causes and solutions for the browning edges of azalea leaves. I hope this article can provide you with some help!