Sunburn

What it looks like

Bleached white or brown dry patches in the middle of leaves, on the side facing the window. Sharply defined and not spreading.

Why it happened

Direct midday sun through glass, most often after moving the plant or in spring when the sun strengthens.

What to do

1. Move the plant a metre back from the window, or hang a sheer curtain. 2. Burned leaves will not recover — remove them only if they bother you. 3. Acclimatise the plant to a new spot gradually, over several days.

How to prevent it

Increase exposure gradually after moving somewhere brighter. Plants adapt to light slowly.

Most common on these species

• Japanese maple
• Fiddle-leaf fig
• Coffee plant
• Mistletoe cactus
• Orchid cactus