Kentia Palm Brown Fronds: Light and Watering Balance

Kentia palms (Howea forsteriana) with sudden frond browning: could be water or light. You water when surface is dry but finger finds dampness below—this is correct.

Light Assessment

Kentias tolerate low light but hold only 4–6 fronds there. Bright morning light yields double the fronds. West-facing living room may provide afternoon heat without sufficient morning intensity.

Watering Rules

• Water entire root ball thoroughly
• Let top half of soil dry between waterings
• Never keep constantly moist—rots roots
• Winter: extra caution on watering
• Small pots preferred—large pots overwater automatically

Diagnostic Signs

Overwatered: yellow tips → yellow speckles → brown. Underwatered: brown tips, drooping fronds. Selective pruning only—don't remove entire fronds.