pesticide damage

What you’re seeing

Leaf margins or patches turn bronze, gray, or scorched shortly after using a spray or drench. New growth may emerge twisted or stunted. Sensitive species show speckled burn where droplets landed.

What it is

Phytotoxic reaction to a plant-protection product or household chemical (including soaps/oils when misused). Causes include wrong product, too-strong mix, hot/sunny application, or incompatible tank mixes.

Is action needed?

Yes—halt exposure and help the plant recover.

How to confirm

Timing: Symptoms appear within hours to a few days after treatment.
Pattern: Distinct droplet marks or uniform burn on surfaces that were sprayed; protected leaves look normal.
Label check: Product not labeled for indoor ornamentals or used outside recommended conditions.

What to do

Rinse foliage thoroughly with plain water as soon as you suspect an issue.
Move to gentle light and stable temps. Avoid direct sun for 1–2 weeks.
Hold fertilizer and additional sprays until healthy new growth resumes.
Prune only dead tissue; keep any green tissue—plants can compartmentalize minor injuries.
Next time: Follow label exactly; test on one leaf and wait 48 hours before full use.

Prevention tips

Never spray in direct sun, under heat lamps, or on drought-stressed plants.
Measure carefully; avoid mixing products unless the label allows it.
Prefer targeted, low-risk options first (mechanical removal, soaps/oils within label).

Herbicide drift from lawn/weed killers behaves similarly but often shows cupped, twisted new growth.
Sunburn also causes patches but without the “just-sprayed” timing.