Brown Leaf Edges on Ferns and Hostas: Drainage and Fertilizer Runoff

Two Common Causes

1. Wet Feet (Poor Drainage)

• Constant rain + slow drainage = root suffocation.
• Leaf margins brown and crisp.
• Amend soil with compost/grit; raise bed slightly.

2. Nitrogen Runoff from Lawn Fertilizer

• High-nitrogen lawn food washes into beds.
• Causes tip burn on sensitive shade plants.
• Create a buffer zone; use slow-release organic lawn fertilizer.

Diagnosis

Check soil moisture 2" down—if soggy, drainage is the issue. If soil is moist but well-drained, suspect fertilizer burn.