Whats up with these leaves?

[Harris E.]

Hey there,

I'm starting to get concerned about these leaves. It's a Rlc. Hawaiian Passion, had it about 18 months. No symptoms other than the leaves. What do you think?

Thanks!

Harris

[katrina]

Looks like a nutrient deficiency. My first 'go-to' would be calcium but it might also be a lack of magnesium. I had the same thing happen w/a few catts (a couple came to me w/this issue) and I started using a Ca/Mg supp.

If it's a deficiency, the older leaves will likely always show that (my old ones never changed) but the new leaves won't develop the same discoloration.

[Ray]

I agree with Katrina, but would peg it on magnesium, rather than calcium.

Calcium is poorly relocated within plant tissues, and particularly in catts, causes the tips of new growths to die and turn black. Magnesium is easily translocated, and is essential in chlorophyll production.

I'd bet that adding Epsom Salts to your fertigation will cure it.

What is your water supply, and what fertilizer formula do you use?

[katrina]

Originally Posted by Ray

Calcium is poorly relocated within plant tissues, and particularly in catts, causes the tips of new growths to die and turn black. Magnesium is easily translocated, and is essential in chlorophyll production.

I'm confused. If it's a mag deficiency and that translocates easily...does that mean the older growths will eventually regain their color?

I've been using a Ca/Mg supp for the past few years and just recently added Epsom salt to my regimen. I've been adding 1Tbsp per gallon of water and have only treated 2x (1x/month)...no changes in the older leaves yet. It would be great if they would eventually regain their normal coloring.

[Harris E.]

Thanks for the advice. I took a look and it's true that the older leaves have the mottling and the newer ones that have grown under my care look OK. That would make sense since I'm using Ray's K-light at 40ppm N three times a week and my tap water has some trace Ca and Mg in it. I don't use any supplements though. Do you think I need to add in Epsom Salts or CalMag?