Saving Indoor Palms in Dry, Heated Homes: Humidity, Watering, and Repotting

75°F + Dry Air = Dead Palms

Palms in Minnesota at 75°F with no humidity develop brown tips that move up the frond. They are tropical—humidity is essential.

Rescue Plan

1. Mist fronds daily (not soil).
2. Water only when soil dry halfway down (stick test).
3. Repot if pot-bound: gravel base, quality mix, loosen roots.
4. Place in indirect light.
5. Leave green fronds; trim only fully brown.

Fertilizer

Granular palm fertilizer 3×/year after recovery. No fertilizer on stressed plants.