It is very common for some plant leaves to turn brown. The spots can appear on the edges and tips, but also in the center of the sheet and spread until they cover the entire surface. Also, the petals of the flowers can be affected on some occasions.
Causes of brown spots on plants
In principle, brown spots are synonymous with wilting, but the causes that produce them can be diverse. Drought is perhaps the most common; When a plant does not have enough water and withers and the first symptom is the appearance of brown spots that cover the entire leaf until it is dry, falls to the ground, or breaks as soon as it is touched. But also scorching (excess heat), frost and some fungi can cause the appearance of brown spots.
Excess heat
Scorching produces brown spots on the leaves, which become wrinkled. This phenomenon occurs when the sun’s rays are very strong. The effect is doubled if the sheets are wet.
Very high temperatures in a closed environment such as a greenhouse or at home, can also cause the appearance of brown spots, which appear at the ends and edges, and spread over time. Adequate ventilation must be provided to closed spaces and thin curtains or blinds must be used to prevent direct sunlight from entering, as well as to keep the plants away from the windows, to prevent them from scorching. It is not advisable to water or spray a plant from above and less in the sun, to prevent the drops of water that remain on it from acting as magnifying glasses and causing burning.
Low temperatures and frost
Low temperatures and frost can cause brown areas, especially in the seedlings. Also, persistent foliage can turn brown. Sensitive species need to be protected as soon as the temperature starts to drop. The very strong gusts of air wither the leaves and cause them to brown. The windbreaks serve as effective protection.
Dry environment
The brittle and brown tips that can be seen in some indoor species reflect a lack of water, but can also be a symptom of an atmosphere that is too dry.
In these cases, an increase in irrigation is imposed, not in the amount of water, but in the frequency, as well as a higher environmental humidity , through spraying on the foliage or by placing in the vicinity a bowl with water and pebbles or a humidifier.
Continuous friction, if the plant is in a passage area, and cold air currents too can cause the appearance of brown spots. Species should be kept away from the windows when the house is going to be ventilated and not placed in a frequent place where their foliage is brushed by.
