A number of causes can induce leaf browning in blueberries. Many of these are associated with factors contributing to overall cane death or die back. If canes are not dying but leaves on particular portions of the plant are turning brown, consider botrytis stem blight, herbicide injury, potassium deficiency or overfertilization.
1) herbicide injury
Herbicide injury from preemergent materials is usually accompanied by leaf yellowing or bleaching, and tends to be interveinal
Princep and Sinbar injury
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2) botrytis stem blight
This fungus affects leaves and shoots during damp, cool springs
3) potassium deficiency
K deficiency results in marginal leaf burn. It is not common, but has been observed in very sandy soils.
4) overfertilization
Overfertilization also causes marginal leaf burn. In young plants, too much fertilizer can lead to death.
Back to Blueberry Diagnostic Tool
This is a part of The Berry Diagnostic Tool - a companion to the NRAES Production Guides for Strawberries, Raspberries and Blueberries