Potassium deficiency
Edges and tips of older leaves go yellow, then brown and crispy, with weak stems. Check pH and EC before reaching for more feed.
Symptoms
- Edges and tips of older leaves turn yellow, then brown and crispy.
- Weak stems.
- Can look like nutrient burn, but starts on the leaf edges of older leaves.
Quick checks
How to fix it
- 1Check
Rule out pH and EC problems
Check the basics first: feed and run-off pH (5.5–6.5), EC for this week, watering, climate and light.
- 2Feed
Follow the chart's flowering programme
In flower, follow the Bloom chart plus either the PK 9/18 or the Resin programme (never both).
- 3Monitor
Judge by new growth
Give it 3–5 days and look at the newest leaves.
Likely causes
- pH out of range.
- Feed too weak, or not following the flowering programme.
- Salt build-up interfering with uptake.
- Cold or waterlogged roots.
What to avoid
- Don't mix up burn and deficiency: if run-off EC is high, cut back instead.
- Don't use PK 9/18 and Resin together.
Prevention
- Feed to the chart.
- Weekly run-off checks.
Monkey products that can help

Bloom A+B
The flowering base feed, with raised phosphorus and potassium for flower development.
Follow the flowering chart for the week: equal amounts of Part A and Part B, added separately and never mixed together neat.
View product →
PK 9/18
A phosphorus and potassium flowering supplement for the PK programme. Choose PK 9/18 or Resin, never both.
Follow the PK chart (flower weeks 4–6). Use PK 9/18 OR Resin, never both.
View product →Products support a healthy plant. They don't replace fixing the cause.
When to get help
If edges keep browning with correct pH and EC, email info@monkeynutrients.co.uk with photos, your readings and week.
Email info@monkeynutrients.co.ukRelated problems
Sources
Advice is general guidance from Monkey Nutrients and UK horticultural sources. Always read product labels.
