Florli

Plant problems

Brown, dry leaf tips

A dry tip is permanent damage, but new growth can reveal whether conditions have improved.

Dry air

Hot airflow can dry leaf margins even when the soil is moist.

Salt buildup

Frequent feeding or hard water may leave salts around roots.

Watering

Repeated swings between drought and saturation can damage fine roots.

Problem

What to do next

  1. 1

    Move the plant away from direct heated airflow.

  2. 2

    Check drainage and any crust on the soil or pot.

  3. 3

    Change one factor and judge the next leaves rather than trimming repeatedly.

Observation

When to act sooner

  • Browning spreads rapidly across the leaf blade.
  • Roots smell unpleasant or stems soften.
  • Fine webbing or pests appear on several leaves.
Important

Brown, dry leaf tips can have several causes. Confirm the plant, conditions and recent care before choosing a treatment.

Florli

Related guides and features

Library Plant problems Yellow leaves, brown spots and root problems: learn what to inspect first and how to avoid making the situation worse. Read the guide → Feature Plant problem checker Florli helps you organize symptoms, consider possible causes and choose a cautious next step without presenting an uncertain result as a definite diagnosis. Read the guide → Feature Plant and garden journal Record watering, feeding, mowing, planting, pruning and your own notes in a history attached to the right plant or place. Read the guide →
Sources and further reading: University of Illinois Extension: houseplant care

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Prepared by Florli. This is general guidance. Sources are listed with each guide, and every decision should reflect the species, location, weather and the plant’s current condition.