The Tips on My Blueberry Leaves Are Turning Brown

Overwatering

• Blueberries thrive in moderately moist, well-draining soils that are enriched with organic matter. Over-watering the soil to the extent of creating pools of water around the base prevents roots from absorbing oxygen. Stressed plant roots develop root rot, a condition that causes the roots to turn black, slimy and emit an unpleasant odor. Over-watering a blueberry plant increases stress and causes the tips and edges of the foliage to turn brown. If possible, transplant the blueberry bush to another spot or amend the soil with peat moss and organic compost.

Excessive Sunlight

• Blueberries thrive in full sunlight to partial shade. Because fruit production is adversely affected if the plant receives more shade than sun, it is best to grow it in a full sunlight. However, exposure to direct sunlight in the summer months increases chances of leaf burn, especially if adequate soil moisture is lacking. Excessive sunlight dehydrates the leaves and causes their tips to turn brown and burn, unless the plant is irrigated frequently. Mulch the soil around the plant to help retain moisture and keep the roots cool.

Excessive Fertilizer

• Blueberries require moderate amounts of fertilizers during the growing season but are easily damaged by excessive amounts. Ideally, feed the blueberry plant a well-balanced azalea fertilizer in spring. Repeat application every six months until midsummer. Keep the fertilizer off of the foliage, and space the granules 6 to 8 inches from the trunk to prevent direct contact that burns the foliage and turns it brown. Symptoms of fertilizer burn appear on the tips of the foliage and gradually spread to cover the entire surface unless corrected. Douse the soil with water immediately after an excessive fertilizer application to dilute the salts.

Care

• Provide care for the blueberry bush to prevent problems such as browning leaf tips to ensure a healthy and bountiful crop. Grow the plant in well-draining soil with full sun exposure and a pH of 4.4 to 5.0. Irrigate the plant frequently, providing it 1 to 2 inches of water every week. Increase irrigation during the summer to prevent dehydration that manifests itself as browning leaf tips and edges. Douse pests, including aphids, spider mites and mealybugs, off of its foliage with a spray of water from a garden hose, or rub neem oil over large infestations.