Saving a Parlor Palm with Browning Fronds in Minnesota

Overwatering, Drainage, and Water Quality

Doreen in MN repotted a Parlor Palm (Majesty Palm) into a larger pot with fertilizer granules. Fronds are browning from the tips despite careful watering. She uses softened water with high iron.

Expert Analysis

• Drainage: Did you add a drainage layer (pea stone, broken clay)? Without it, roots sit in water and rot, causing tip burn.
• Watering: Palms dislike "wet feet." Allow the top inch to dry, but ensure the root ball is moist, not soggy.
• Humidity: Mist daily to deter spider mites.
• Water Quality: Softened water adds sodium, which can harm palms. Use filtered or rain water if possible.
• Fertilizer: Granules in the planting hole can burn roots. Use slow‑release or liquid at half strength.

Home Depot guarantees plants for a year—consider a replacement if it doesn't improve.