If a plant looks unusual, appears limp or suddenly has brown or yellow leaves, then this is usually a cause for concern, even with indoor palms. However, the reasons for this can be very diverse. Go looking for clues.
What causes brown tips on an indoor palm tree?
If an indoor palm tree has brown tips, the cause may be insufficient water supply, low humidity, sunburn or pests and fungi. This can be remedied by adequate watering, increasing humidity and protecting against sunburn.
The causes of brown leaves on indoor palms
There is not always an illness behind the changed appearance; care errors are often to blame for leaf discoloration. Since there are many different types of indoor palms, some of which require special care, you should already know exactly which palm you have.
A common cause of brown spots on the leaves is sunburn. This occurs if you place your palm tree in the sun for too long or pour water on the leaves in bright sunshine. Sometimes there is also a fungal disease behind the brown spots.
How to help your indoor palm
If you have watered your indoor palm sufficiently and the soil is not wet, then think about the humidity. If this is too low, your indoor palm will suffer and become dry. Spraying the palm tree immediately with low-lime water helps here. However, you can only effectively combat massive fungal infestation with fungicides (anti-fungal agents).
Dry air often leads to pest infestation, because the spider mite loves airy and dry climates. A window sill above the heater offers ideal conditions for propagation. Be sure to set up a humidifier here or spray your plants regularly with lukewarm, low-lime water.
To avoid sunburn, acclimate your indoor palm to the spring sun slowly. Be sure to avoid the midday sun for the first few days and only water the palm tree in the shade. At night the palm tree belongs back in the house. Some species, such as the phoenix palm, like to spend the summer in the garden.
The most important things in brief:
- water enough
- ensure high humidity
- protect from sunburn
- Older leaves turn brown before falling off
Tip
If the lower leaves of your indoor palm trees turn brown, this is rarely a cause for concern. As long as new leaves grow at the top, this is a completely normal growth process.