Root zone too dry
Dry soil with drooping or curling may fit underwatering or uneven re-wetting.
Check: Check deeper than the surface and lift the pot to judge its weight.
Symptom guidepossible
Brown tips
Brown tips describe a pattern of damage, not one confirmed cause. Start with an even root-zone moisture check, then review recent fertiliser use and the plant's environment.
This tool lists possible explanations, not a confirmed plant diagnosis.
Starting checks for brown tips
- Check whether the mix is dry below the surface rather than judging from a dry-looking top layer alone.
- Look for a pattern: only tips, whole margins, older leaves, or new leaves can point to different next checks.
- Record recent feeding, water changes, heat exposure, and whether the pot drains freely.
Warning signs to check promptly
- Browning that advances quickly beyond the tips while the plant is wilting or the mix remains wet needs a closer root-zone and pest inspection.
- Dark, soft roots or a sour smell when the root ball is checked are warning observations; do not keep watering without reassessing drainage.
Frequently asked questions
Do brown tips prove that indoor air is too dry?
No. Tip damage can have several explanations. Check root-zone moisture, drainage, and recent care changes before attributing it to humidity.
Should I give extra water for brown tips?
Only if the mix is dry at the appropriate depth for that plant. Repeated small amounts of water can leave parts of a pot dry while other areas stay wet.
Can fertiliser be relevant to brown leaf tips?
It can be one possible factor. Note recent fertiliser use and follow the product label; do not add more fertiliser as a response to damaged tips.