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Nutrient Burn
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Nutrient burn, also known as fertilizer burn, is a common issue encountered by beginner cannabis growers. It occurs when the cannabis plant's roots absorb an excessive amount of nutrients, leading to disrupted water flow and resulting in burnt tips on the leaves. The burn initially appears as yellow or brown tips and can progress inward, causing the ends of leaves to become crispy and twisted. Nutrient burn is more serious during the flowering stage of the plant.
Cause of Issue
◉ Nutrient burn occurs when cannabis plants receive high levels of bottled nutrients, particularly chemical or mineral-based ones.
◉ Mineral-based nutrients are easily absorbed by the roots but can be overused, disrupting the plant's water flow.
◉ Nutrient burn can also happen when plants are grown in soil with high nutrient content, such as fresh compost or manure.
Symptoms
◉ Yellow, tan, gold, or brown tips on marijuana leaves.
◉ Tips gradually turn rusty brown and become crispy.
◉ Burnt appearance may spread from the tips to the whole leaf.
◉ Brown or bronze spotting around leaf edges or downward curling of leaf tips may occur.
Corrective Actions
◉ Use quality nutrients specifically designed for cannabis and follow the recommended dosage for each growth stage.
◉ Start with lower nutrient levels than recommended and gradually increase if necessary.
◉ In hand-watered systems, flush the system with pH-balanced water.
◉ In hydro systems, reduce nutrient levels in the water reservoir or change the water with diluted nutrients.
◉ Monitor nutrient levels using a TDS meter in hydroponic setups.
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