
Brown Tips on Houseplants: Water, Salts, and Dry Air
Check the root ball, fertilizer history, water source, and air near the leaves. Brown tips are permanent, but the cause of fresh tip burn can be corrected.
Read the guidePlant profile
Bird of paradise needs room for its large leaves and strong light. Clean green splits can remain; curl and wilt require checking moisture inside the large root ball.
Check this plant
Water thoroughly after the upper mix dries; avoid a constantly wet large pot.
Very bright light; can handle some direct sun when acclimated.
Drainage
high
Root rot risk
medium
A green leaf with clean splits can remain attached.
Compare moisture near the center and lower part of a large pot.
Check exposed leaves beside vents or cold glass.
Useful guides

Check the root ball, fertilizer history, water source, and air near the leaves. Brown tips are permanent, but the cause of fresh tip burn can be corrected.
Read the guide
Timing narrows the cause: sudden curl in a dry pot, midday curl near hot glass, a leaf that stays rolled, or new growth opening distorted.
Read the guide
Low light tends to change new growth over time. Excess sun can scorch exposed leaves quickly. Compare growth, damage location, and recent placement changes.
Read the guide
Feel the root ball before watering. Dry soil, wet roots, and a dry center after repotting can all leave a peace lily limp.
Read the guide
Check leaf age, moisture inside the root ball, and pest marks to decide what a yellow monstera leaf needs.
Read the guide
Use the spot’s location, texture, and change over time to decide whether to check roots, exposure, pests, or leaf disease.
Read the guide