Does this mean my leeks are dying?

Not at all, it is usually just a reaction to the environment. Your leeks will likely continue to grow fine despite the cosmetic damage.

Is it caused by fertilizer burn?

It can be if you applied too much fertilizer too close to the stem. Always water well after fertilizing to dilute the nutrients.

Why do my leek leaves have brown tips? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the soil feels dry an inch below the surface.
Look for signs of wilting during the hottest part of the day.
Verify that your mulch layer is still intact.

Likely causes

Inconsistent Watering
Most likely
How to tell: The tips of the leaves turn dry and crispy while the rest of the leaf remains green.
What to do: Establish a regular watering schedule of every 3 to 7 days. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture in the soil.
Heat Stress
Possible
How to tell: The tips brown during periods of intense, direct summer sun and high temperatures.
What to do: Provide some afternoon shade using a garden cloth if temperatures soar. Ensure the plants are well hydrated to help them cope with the heat.

Brown tips on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your leek

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Minor browning at the very tips is common and rarely affects the harvest. Worry if the browning starts moving down the entire length of the leaf.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil evenly moist and use mulch to protect the roots from temperature fluctuations.

Leek: brown tips? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your leek and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Does this mean my leeks are dying?: Not at all, it is usually just a reaction to the environment. Your leeks will likely continue to grow fine despite the cosmetic damage.
Is it caused by fertilizer burn?: It can be if you applied too much fertilizer too close to the stem. Always water well after fertilizing to dilute the nutrients.

Why do my leek leaves have brown tips?