Why Ugu Plants (Pumpkin Leaves) Died/Dried Up After Applying Fertilizer - Any Solution?

Do you noticed your ugu plants dried up gradually after you applied fertilizer on it?

What can you do to revive it again?

Do you think it the fertilizer that's shrinking it?

First question should be - which of the fertilizer did you use?

So, sorry. Fertilizers should be applied 5cm away from from the root of the plant, and applying the right quantity is very important. There is nothing you can do than to irrigate it with enough water.

Fertilizers are applied at 5 gram per plant and 5-10 cm away from the root zone.

Irrigate your ugu plants morning and evening to step down the acidity of the fertilizer. Enough water morning and evening

Next time, use NPK 20 10 10.

Knowing the causes behind this issue and how to address it is important for preventing future losses. 

One of the most common reasons ugu plants die after applying fertilizer is over-fertilization. Applying too much fertilizer can lead to a condition known as fertilizer burn. This occurs when excessive nutrients, particularly salts, accumulate in the soil, drawing moisture out of the plant roots and causing them to dehydrate.

The leaves may turn yellow or brown, starting from the edges and tips, and the plant may wilt or dry up. If you suspect over-fertilization, flush the soil with plenty of water to wash away excess nutrients. Water the plants deeply and consistently over several days to help the roots recover. Moving forward, follow the recommended fertilizer dosage and frequency. Use a balanced fertilizer and apply it sparingly.

Using the wrong type of fertilizer can also cause damage to ugu plants. Fertilizers high in certain nutrients, like nitrogen, can cause rapid growth that the plant cannot sustain, leading to stress and eventually causing the plant to die. On the other hand, some fertilizers may contain harmful chemicals that are not suitable for ugu plants. The plant may show signs of nutrient imbalance, such as stunted growth, discoloration, or leaf drop. Which is why you should always use a fertilizer that is appropriate for leafy vegetables like ugu. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, are often safer options as they release nutrients slowly and improve soil structure. If chemical fertilizers are used, choose a balanced one with an N-P-K ratio that supports leaf growth (e.g., 10-10-10).

The timing of fertilizer application is also one thing you should keep in mind. Fertilizing during periods of drought, extreme heat, or when the plant is stressed from other factors can worsen the plant’s condition and lead to death. Plants may wilt, dry up, or show no growth response after fertilization. Just apply fertilizer when the plants are healthy and during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. Avoid fertilizing during extreme weather conditions. Water the plants before and after applying fertilizer to help the nutrients distribute evenly and prevent root burn.

Sometimes, the issue may not be the fertilizer itself but the soil conditions. If the soil is poorly drained or compacted, fertilizers can concentrate in one area, leading to root damage. Additionally, acidic or alkaline soil can alter nutrient availability, causing the plant to suffer despite fertilization. The plants may show uneven growth, with some areas thriving while others die off.

Also, don't forget that pests and diseases can weaken ugu plants, making them more vulnerable to the effects of fertilizer. For example, root rot caused by fungi in waterlogged soil can make the roots unable to absorb nutrients, leading to plant death after fertilization. Look for signs of pests (e.g., holes in leaves, wilting) or disease (e.g., mold, root rot) alongside the fertilization issues.