Corn Plant Brown Tips: Causes and Simple Fixes

Brown tips on lower leaves of a 5-foot corn plant (Dracaena fragrans 'Massangeana') with healthy new growth are usually cosmetic and caused by one or more common factors:

• Low humidity (especially in heated homes)
• Inconsistent watering (too dry, then too wet)
• Fluoride/chlorine in tap water
• Excess fertilizer salts
• Natural aging of older leaves

Practical Solutions

1. Trim brown tips with scissors, following the leaf's natural shape.
2. Let tap water sit uncovered 24 hours before use to dissipate chemicals.
3. Water thoroughly when the top quarter of soil feels dry.
4. Stop fertilizing—corn plants need very little.
5. Increase humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier.

If new growth remains healthy, the plant is fine. Brown tips on older leaves are normal and manageable.