OTHER CAUSES OF PLANT PROBLEMS - CROWN/FOLIAGE

A variety of environmental and mechanical factors can cause plant problems. These factors may be the primary cause of the problem, or they may be secondary, placing additional stress on the plant. This weakens the plant's defense system and resistance to plant disease.

Abiotic (non-infectious) factors are usually caused by adverse environmental conditions. Abiotic causes of plant problems may include:

	WINTER INJURY Browning of foliage and/or death of new shoots. Photo by Chad Behrendt
	HERBICIDE INJURY Browning, curling, and dying of leaves. Witches' brooms (dense clusters of shoots) may be formed. Photo by Chad Behrendt
	NUTRIENT DEFICIENCY Plants in alkaline soils may become chlorotic (develop yellow-green leaves) due to an iron deficiency. Photo by Crystal Floyd

Animals may cause browning of leaves or premature leaf loss, due to girdling or excision of branches.

DEER BROWSE Leaves and small stems are chewed off. Photo by Chad J. Behrendt

Insects can cause symptoms similar to plant disease.

INSECT DAMAGE Insect feeding on rose. Photo by Crystal Floyd

Refer to the following web pages for more information on insects.

University of MN, Department of EntomologyUniversity of MN, Integrated Pest Management


Abiotic causes of plant problems may also include improper cultural practices. Refer to the following web page for information on proper tree care.

Planting & Care


For more information on how to identify and control noninfectious diseases

Plant Disease Diagnostics
University of Minnesota, Yard and Garden Clinic
Developed (1999) and maintained by
Chad J. Behrendt, Ph.D. and Crystal M. Floyd

For plant disease questions contact the Yard and Garden Line Content Last Updated 09/07/00 View University of Minnesota Disclaimer