Troubleshooting Brown Leaves on Indoor Palms

Brown leaves on a palm usually signal one of three issues: overwatering, underwatering, or insufficient light. Pinpointing the cause requires details about the plant's environment and care routine.

Key Questions to Diagnose the Problem

• Species: Different palms have different needs (e.g., parlor palm vs. majesty palm).
• Location: Distance from window, window direction, and whether light is direct or filtered.
• Pot size: Is the plant root-bound? A too-large pot holds excess moisture.
• Watering routine: Frequency, amount, and whether the pot drains fully.

Common Fixes

• Overwatering: Let soil dry 1–2 inches deep between waterings; ensure drainage holes aren't blocked.
• Underwatering: Water thoroughly until it drains out, then wait until the top inch is dry.
• Low light: Move to a brighter spot (east/west window) or add a grow light.
• Pests: Check for spider mites (fine webbing) or scale (bumps on stems); treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.

Once you identify the specific issue, adjust care accordingly. Most palms recover well if caught early.