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Light & Temperature · Plant health field guide

Heat or cold injury

Temperature extremes and drafts can damage cells rapidly.

WatchPossible cause—not a diagnosis. Compare the visible signs, plant identity, and growing conditions before treating.

Signs you may notice

  • collapsed tissue
  • dark patches
  • bleached areas
  • sudden leaf drop

Safe first checks

  1. Review vents, windows, transport, heater exposure, and the timing of the first symptoms.
  2. Photograph the affected area in clear natural light.
  3. Review recent changes in light, temperature, water, feeding, or location.
  4. Change one likely cause at a time and record the result.

Can look similar to

Overlapping symptoms are common. Compare these alternatives before choosing a treatment.

  • sunburn
  • overwatering
  • bacterial soft rot

What to avoid

Do not make several care changes at once; that makes the response harder to interpret.

Record and follow up

Photograph the same area again and record one change at a time. Compare new growth and whether the symptom spreads, stabilizes, or improves.

Seek qualified local help when damage is severe, rapidly spreading, or may involve a regulated pest or disease.