Chamaedorea Palm Brown Tips: Overwatering + Spider Mites Dual Attack

Your Chamaedorea (radicalis) palm browns from tips despite weekly watering. Two issues:

1. Watering Still Too Frequent

• Palms need 7-10 DAYS between waterings
• Soil must be dry several inches down
• Bamboo skewer test: dry halfway = water time
• Tropics = sandy soil that drains fast. Potting soil holds water longer.
• Empty drain tray ALWAYS (turkey baster if needed)

2. Spider Mites (Webbing = Confirmed)

• Webbing on fronds = spider mites
• Stressed plant (root rot) attracts mites
• Treatment: Mist 50/50 water + rubbing alcohol, fronts/backs ALL fronds, 2×/week for 1 month
• Kills adults, eggs, hatchlings

Misting Note

Misting fronds is FINE (little water reaches soil). Alcohol mist kills mites. Don't stop misting—just add alcohol.

Recovery Sequence

1. Cut watering frequency drastically
2. Start alcohol misting immediately
3. New growth should emerge clean

Fix the root zone, treat the mites, and your palm will thrive.