Coffee plants are known for their beautiful red berries, creamy star-shaped flowers, and glossy green leaves. However, if you’re a coffee plant enthusiast, you may have encountered the issue of brown leaves. In this article, we will explore the causes behind this problem and provide practical tips to restore healthy leaves to your coffee plant.
What Causes Coffee Plants to Have Brown Leaves?
Coffee plants are quite sensitive when it comes to atmospheric conditions. Low air moisture, excessive sunlight, and fungal diseases can all contribute to the discoloration and browning of coffee leaves.
How to Identify Brown Leaves on Coffee Plant?
Sometimes, it can be challenging to recognize coffee leaf problems until it’s too late to treat them. Look for signs such as darkening leaves, a change from lush green to moss or seaweed green, and the drying and brittleness of leaves. By keeping an eye out for these signs, you will have a better chance of saving your coffee plant.
4 Major Causes behind Brown Leaves on Coffee Plants
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Your plant has low humidity: Coffee plants rely on relative humidity for proper functioning. When the humidity level falls below 50%, the leaves may not receive necessary nutrients like magnesium and potassium, resulting in browning.
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You are not watering it enough: Consistent watering is crucial for coffee plants, even when grown as houseplants. Without enough water, the leaves can turn dusky brown and shrink in size.
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The sunlight is scorching the coffee leaves: Coffee plants thrive under indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can lead to stunted growth, crumbling stems, and brown, decaying leaves.
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Fungus is feeding off your plant: Fungal diseases, such as coffee leaf rust caused by the Hemileia vastatrix fungus, can drastically change the color of coffee leaves. Look out for orange and rusty tinges on the leaves before they turn brown.
How to Restore Healthy Leaves on Coffee Plant?
If you identify the root cause of brown leaves early on, it won’t be difficult to cure your coffee plant. Here are some practical tips:
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Increase the humidity: Lightly misting your coffee leaves or using pebble trays filled with water can raise the humidity around the plant.
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Create a watering plan: Coffee plants require substantial water, so establish a consistent watering schedule.
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Beware of the sun: Place your coffee plant in a shaded area to protect its leaves from excessive heat and light.
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Address the fungus: Use a homemade spray with baking soda mixed with water to combat fungal diseases. However, be cautious as leaf rust can spread to healthy leaves.
What Happens if You Don’t Treat the Coffee Leaves?
Ignoring the treatment of brown coffee leaves can have detrimental effects on the health of your plant. The chlorophyll pigment responsible for photosynthesis in healthy leaves cannot absorb light when the leaves turn brown. This lack of energy leads to drooping, wilting, and ultimately the demise of the plant.
To prevent this unhappy fate for your coffee plant, it’s essential to understand and address its problems promptly.
For more information about coffee plants and their care, visit Marmalade Cafe, where you can find expert advice and a wide range of resources.
Frequently Asked Questions About Why Leaves Turn Brown On Coffee Plants
Q: Why do my coffee leaves have orange spots that are slowly turning brown?
A: Orange spots on coffee leaves indicate a spreading fungal infection. You can use homemade or commercial fungicides to address this issue.
Q: What should I do if all the leaves on my coffee plant are brown?
A: If all the leaves have turned brown, it may be best to dispose of the coffee plant to prevent damage to other houseplants.
Remember, understanding the causes of brown leaves and taking proactive measures can help maintain the vibrancy and health of your coffee plant.