Brown leaf tips are one of the most common signs your houseplant is stressed. Whether it's due to low humidity, inconsistent watering, or chemical buildup in the soil, those crispy edges are your plant’s way of saying something’s off. Luckily, most causes are easy to fix once you know what to look for. Here’s how to identify why your plant’s leaf tips are turning brown — and what you can do to bring it back to health.
Low Humidity
Many popular houseplants — especially tropical varieties — thrive in humid environments. When indoor air is too dry, particularly in winter, the leaf tips can dehydrate and turn brown.
How to fix it:
- Mist your plant regularly.
- Place a small humidifier nearby.
- Cluster plants together to increase humidity.
- Set the pot on a pebble tray with water (but don’t let the pot sit in the water).
Inconsistent Watering
Fluctuations between underwatering and overwatering can both cause brown tips. Dry soil can lead to dehydration, while soggy roots from overwatering can struggle to absorb nutrients properly.
How to fix it:
- Check soil moisture before watering.
- Water consistently based on the plant’s needs.
- Use your finger or a moisture meter to avoid overcorrecting in either direction.
Fertilizer Burn
Too much fertilizer or overly concentrated feed can cause salt buildup in the soil, leading to root damage that appears as brown or crispy tips.
How to fix it:
- Reduce how often you fertilize.
- Only fertilize during the growing season.
- Flush the soil every few months by watering thoroughly to remove excess salts.
Tap Water Sensitivity
Some plants are sensitive to minerals and chemicals in tap water — especially fluoride and chlorine. Commonly affected plants include spider plants, dracaenas, and calatheas.
How to fix it:
- Let tap water sit out overnight to let chemicals dissipate.
- Switch to filtered, rain, or distilled water for sensitive plants.
Pot-Bound Roots
When a plant outgrows its pot, roots can become crowded, limiting water uptake and stressing the plant — often resulting in brown tips.
How to fix it:
- Check if roots are circling the bottom of the pot or emerging from drainage holes.
- Repot into a slightly larger container if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Trim Off Brown Leaf Tips?
Yes — it’s safe to trim brown tips with clean scissors. Follow the natural curve of the leaf to keep it looking neat. This won’t harm your plant and can make it look healthier instantly.
Final Thoughts
A few brown tips here and there aren’t a death sentence. If your plant otherwise looks healthy, it’s probably just adjusting to its environment. Monitor its overall condition, make small care tweaks, and don’t stress too much — most plants are tougher than they look.