Plant problem
Sunscald on Leaves and Fruits
Prevent sunscald by hardening seedlings, shading exposed fruit, and avoiding sudden light changes.
- Most common cause
- Sudden intense sun
- First action
- Provide temporary shade
- Recovery time
- Damaged tissue will not heal
How to identify it
- Symptoms appear on leaves, stems, soil, or new growth.
- The problem often starts in one section before spreading.
- Recent watering, weather, fertilizer, or transplant changes usually provide clues.
How to fix it
- Confirm the likely cause before treating.
- Provide temporary shade
- Remove badly affected leaves or pests where needed.
- Improve light, airflow, soil moisture, or spacing.
- Track recovery through new growth rather than damaged old leaves.
Prevention
- Check plants twice a week.
- Water at soil level in the morning.
- Use clean tools and healthy soil.
- Avoid overcrowding and weak light.
Next steps
Common questions
Should I remove damaged leaves?
Remove leaves that are badly diseased, pest-covered, or blocking airflow. Keep mildly damaged leaves if the plant still needs them for growth.
How fast will the plant recover?
Typical recovery is Damaged tissue will not heal, but damaged leaves may not turn green again. Look for healthy new growth.