Manganese deficiency

Bright translucent spots on young expanding leaves are often the earliest conspicuous sign (J. O'Sullivan).

The interveinal spots become sunken brown pits (J. O'Sullivan).

- indistinct pale green mottle of mature leaves, which may droop or curl down at the edges but are not wilted.

- fine pits on young expanding leaves, appearing first as pale spots, then becoming brown, sometimes expanding into holes.

- young leaves remain smaller than normal and may be pale or deformed.

May be associated with alkaline soils (high pH), such as on coral or limestone soils, or after application of lime.

Confirm diagnosis by painting the surface of half an expanding leaf with manganese sulfate solution, and symptoms should be reduced in a few days, compared with the other half.