Leaf Scorch / Sunburn
Leaf scorch is heat/light/wind damage to foliage: the leaf loses water faster than the roots can replace it, and tissue dries and dies — typically at…
Leaf Scorch / Sunburn at a glance
| Also known as | Sunburn, leaf burn, wind scorch |
|---|---|
| Affected parts | Leaves / needles |
| Most at risk | Thin-leaved and shade-preferring species (Japanese maple, hornbeam, beech, ginkgo, gardenia) |
| Main cause | More sun/heat/wind than the leaves can cool, often with drying out |
| Severity | Cosmetic to moderate; rarely fatal but weakens the tree |
| Reversible? | Damaged leaves won't recover, but the tree re-leaves if protected |
What to look for
- Leaves: Dry, brown or tan, brittle patches at leaf tips and margins, or scorched zones between the veins; the worst damage is on the sun-/wind-facing side and on the most exposed leaves. Whole leaves may crisp and drop.
- Whole tree: Damage concentrated on the exposed side; shaded interior leaves stay green.
Overview
Leaf scorch is heat/light/wind damage to foliage: the leaf loses water faster than the roots can replace it, and tissue dries and dies — typically at the tips, edges, and between veins, where water reaches last. It is most common on thin-leaved species, freshly leafed-out spring growth, recently repotted trees, and any tree suddenly moved into stronger sun.
Causes
Intense midday/afternoon sun on species that prefer dappled light; hot drying wind; reflected heat; sudden move from shade to full sun without hardening off; and any drought stress that reduces the leaf's ability to cool itself.
Commonly confused with
Fertilizer burn also browns margins but follows feeding and affects the whole tree. Underwatering wilts first with dry soil. Fungal leaf spot makes defined spots with margins/halos rather than diffuse edge browning. Wind/salt burn looks like scorch — check exposure.
Which species are affected
Thin-leaved and shade-tolerant species are most prone (Japanese and trident maple, hornbeam, beech, ginkgo when young, gardenia, camellia); tough sun-lovers (pines, junipers, olive) rarely scorch.
Treatment
Move the tree to morning sun / afternoon shade and out of wind; keep it properly watered. Remove badly crisped leaves only if you wish — leave the tree to re-foliate. Don't fertilise a stressed tree. For valued maples, use shade cloth in midsummer.
Prevention
Match light to the species; harden trees into stronger sun gradually; provide afternoon shade and wind shelter for thin-leaved species in summer; never let exposed trees dry out; shade fresh spring growth and recently repotted trees.