Avocado Leaf Tip Burn: Causes and Solutions

Symptoms

Leaves turn grey at the tips, then brown, progressing inward. The process starts at the leaf apex, as shown in the photo. This pattern often leads to plant death if unaddressed.

Likely Causes

• Root or soil issues: Most common—overwatering, poor drainage, or salt buildup from fertilizer.
• Water stress: Either too much or too little water; excess moisture is more frequent.
• Fertilizer salt accumulation: Causes tip and edge burn.

Diagnostic Steps

1. Check soil moisture—let it dry out between waterings.
2. Flush the soil with water to leach excess salts, then allow thorough drainage.
3. Inspect roots: healthy roots are white or cream; black, brittle roots indicate rot.
4. Gently tug small roots—if they break easily, root damage is present.

Corrective Actions

• Repot in well-draining mix if root rot is found.
• Water only when the top inch of soil is dry and the plant shows slight wilting.
• Avoid fertilizing until recovery is evident.
• Ensure pot has drainage holes and never let it sit in standing water.

This is not typically a contagious disease but a cultural/environmental issue. Addressing the root zone conditions usually resolves the problem.