2112
Tree leaf scorch
 As the
growing season progresses into late summer, leaves on many plants begin to
exhibit tip burn or more significant scorch. When a plant has been
scorched, the veins in its leaves remain green and the tissue between the
veins turns brown and brittle. A plant can scorch when something
interferes with the tree's complex process of water uptake and water
loss.
A plant's root system serves many purposes; one of the most important
is water uptake. As the root system absorbs water, the plant balances
taking in new water by losing some water through openings in leaves and
stems. This process is called transpiration.
Water uptake and loss can be affected by many factors including hot,
dry, windy conditions, lack of soil moisture or lack of soil oxygen. A
combination of these factors creates an imbalance between water uptake and
water loss.
Soils in urban areas can be packed and not drain properly which causes
low oxygen content. Roots, which may not function properly in these
conditions, cannot replace water fast enough to keep up with what is lost
through transpiration.
To manage a leaf scorch problem, check soil moisture by taking a sample
about three to six inches deep just beyond the plant. If the soil is dry,
add water. Deep infrequent watering is more beneficial for plant growth
than frequent, light watering. If the soil is too wet, let the soil dry
out slightly before watering again.
For more information, see the following Colorado State Extension fact sheet(s).
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