How do I fix brown tips on leaves?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Brown tips on the leaves usually begin as a minor warning, before a bigger plant problem. I have reclaimed spider plants that were 50% brown tip by cutting above healthy tissue to allow the plant to send energy to the good tissue. Scissors should be cleaned with rubbing alcohol first since dirty scissors spread disease. Water is based on how dry the soil is, not the calendar.
Soil Salt Flush
- White crusts signal mineral buildup from tap water
- Pour distilled water through soil until runoff clears
- Repeat monthly if using synthetic fertilizers
Root Revival
- Root-bound plants show coiled roots at pot edges
- Gently tease roots apart before repotting
- Use pots 1-2 inches wider than rootball
Climate Control
- Heat vents dry air to desert-like humidity (<30%)
- Move plants 3+ feet from drafty windows
- Group plants to create humidity microclimates
To avoid future tips, use filtered water, that's when my peace lily stopped browning. You can also monitor humidity with a $15 hygrometer. Pebble trays work well but need to be topped off every week. For my tropical plants, I use a humidifier set to about 55% RH as a substitute for their native jungles.
Be patient. New growth will either confirm if your fixes worked or it will be obvious if your fixes failed. For instance, a bamboo palm put out perfect fronds 6 weeks after being treated. Leave damaged leaves (until you see new growth) as they are still able to photosynthesize. Keep a journal to track growth (i.e. dates watered, dates trimmed, change in humidity).
Read the full article: Understanding and Fixing Brown Leaf Edges on Plants
