I usually write about plant diseases and the tested methods to treat them. Brown leaf issue is common in all plants and trees. But when you see papaya leaf edges turning brown, it's a lot more serious issue than you think. In this article, you will learn why the papaya leaves edges turn brown and how to cure it.
Note: A papaya tree is easy to grow in tropical and subtropical regions with minimal care. Despite this, a healthy papaya plant can sometimes catch diseases and die so quickly that you can't even imagine.
The reason I am saying this: "I witnessed this many times".
The trunk of a papaya tree is hollow because of this it is vulnerable to pests. If an insect or bug finds a way inside, it can easily spread diseases throughout the plant. Due to this, you can see a lot of symptoms like wilting leaves, yellow leaves, or brown leaves. In this case, it is almost impossible to save your plant.
Reasons: Brown leaf edges of a papaya tree
I already told you one reason and you can't treat that.
Now move to the major possible reasons.
- Recently fertilized or chemical damage.
- Windburn. (Due to heavy winds).
- Salt damage.
The above reasons are for brown edges not the brown spots inside the leaves.
Now understand how to identify the exact reason based on symptoms.
Symptoms and treatments
Recently Fertilized or chemical damage:
Have you recently fertilized your papaya plant? If yes, then this might be a possible reason. (Mostly for chemical fertilizer)
Do not feed your plant chemical fertilizer in Winter. Try to feed in the active growing season.
Chemical components in chemical fertilizer can sometimes affect your plant if the plant is not capable of tolerating the fertilizer. As a result, the leaves will start curling or shrinking and the sides or edges of the leaves will turn brown.
Treatment: Stop using any chemical fertilizer for the next three months.
Windburn:
Due to heavy storms or wind, the leaf edges can turn brown. This is normal and will recover soon. You do not have to worry much about this.
The treatment is also easier. Water properly. (Maintain good water drainage in the soil)
I have a separate dedicated article on this: Post-hurricane wind burn - What to do
Salt damage:
In coastal areas, this is a common reason. With hurricanes, salt water spray and flooded salt water can reach your papaya plant.
Due to this, the edges of the papaya leaves can turn brown.
Note: This may turn the inside area of the leaves brown. (Like brown spots and patches)
If you feel that this is your main concern take your time to read this: Save your plants from flooded saltwater
Some other reasons for brown spots on papaya leaves
Till now, I have discussed on the brown edges. I feel that some of you might face brown spots on other parts of the leaf.
An excessive amount of direct sunlight after applying foliar spray or any pest-controlling substant, you may witness brown spots on several parts of the leaves.
Treatment: Spray water on the leaves thoroughly.
Sudden cold or sudden temp. decrease can also cause brown edges of the leaves. No need to worry, it will recover once your papaya tree adapts to this sudden environmental stress.
If you have any further doubts feel free to let me know in the comment section. I will respond as soon as possible.
