Plant questions

monstera

Why is my Monstera new leaf browning before it fully opens?

That brown edge on the new leaf is usually from stress while the leaf is still tightly rolled – most often low humidity, underwatering, or the leaf getting stuck and damaged. Check watering, light, and humidity, and focus on helping the next leaf grow in better.

indoor palm

Why are the leaves on my indoor palm turning brown and yellow?

The browning and yellowing on this palm isn’t from seasons; it’s usually stress from watering, light, or dry air. Check the soil moisture, move it out of harsh sun, trim the dead parts, and adjust watering so the soil is evenly moist but never soggy.

How often should I water basement houseplants under grow lights?

In a basement with strong grow lights and 24‑hour humidifiers, water only when the top 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) of soil are dry, then water thoroughly until it drains out the bottom. Don’t water on a schedule—let the soil dryness, pot size, and plant type guide you, and consider running the humidifier less so the soil can dry between waterings.

Calathea (pinstripe calathea)

Why are the edges of my Calathea (pinstripe) leaves drying out?

On Calatheas, crispy brown edges are almost always from dry air, underwatering, or tap water sensitivity. Check humidity and watering first, then adjust light and water quality.

rattlesnake plant (Calathea lancifolia)

Why are some leaves on my rattlesnake plant turning yellow?

On a rattlesnake plant, a few yellowing leaves are usually from normal aging plus a bit of stress from inconsistent watering or dry air, not a sudden disease. Remove the worst leaves, check that the soil dries slightly between waterings but never stays soggy, and keep humidity on the higher side.