Mandevilla Leaf Browning: Fertilizer Burn Diagnosis

Initial Assessment

A vigorous, blooming mandevilla in a pot with AM sun shows browning from tips of lower leaves. Owner suspected watering issue.

Breakthrough

Photo revealed tip burn on multiple leaves. Owner admitted recent application of granular hibiscus fertilizer—likely over-applied.

Diagnosis: Fertilizer Burn

Granular fertilizer in a container can create localized high salt concentrations, burning roots and causing leaf tip/edge necrosis.

Rescue

1. Repot immediately: remove all old soil, wash roots.
2. Use fresh potting mix.
3. Future fertilizing: half-strength soluble (Miracle-Gro, Peters) monthly.
4. Water deeply until drainage, then wait until soil dry several inches down.
5. Mulch surface to slow drying.