Browning along the edges of raspberry leaves can be caused by several factors. It is difficult to distinguish between causes based on symptoms alone. One must consider several possibilities to determine the cause.
1) herbicide injury
Some varieties are sensitive to herbicides. Princep and Sinbar are most likely to cause marginal burning. If root uptake occurs, veinal or interveinal yellowing also may occur.
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In the photo, both varieties were treated with the same rate of Princep herbicide. Royalty is particularly sensitive.
2) excessive fertilizer
Fertilizer burn can occur when excessive chloride fertilizers (e.g. muriate of potash) or high rates of nitrogen fertilizers (esp.ammonium sources) are applied.
3) nutrient deficiency
Potassium deficiency can cause marginal burning. Many other nutrient deficiencies also cause marginal burning, unlike many other plants where symptoms of various deficiencies are distinctive.
4) drought
Raspberry leaves may begin to die from drought, but recover upon watering, leaving the edges of leaves brown.
5) other diseases associated with cane or lateral death
Browning of leaves is one of the first symptoms exhibited by a dying cane or lateral.
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