Why Does My Anthurium Have Brown Leaf Tips?

Brown tips on anthurium leaves are a common issue and often point to fertiliser or watering problems. While anthuriums are hardy, their roots are sensitive to nutrient imbalance, salts, and inconsistent moisture. These stress factors first show at the delicate leaf edges.

Identifying whether the issue is fertiliser-related, environmental, or a mix of both is key to restoring glossy, green leaves and keeping your plant healthy long-term.

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Main Causes of Brown Tips

The following fertiliser and care mistakes are the most common reasons for brown leaf tips:

Over-fertilisation: Excess fertiliser salts build up in the soil and scorch root tips, which then show as leaf tip burn.
Irregular Watering: Allowing soil to dry completely, then overwatering, stresses roots and increases fertiliser burn sensitivity.
Low Humidity: Dry air accelerates tip browning, especially in heated or air-conditioned rooms.
Hard Water: Tap water high in minerals or chlorine can contribute to salt build-up in the potting mix.
Incorrect Fertiliser Balance: High nitrogen fertilisers fuel fast leaf growth but make tips prone to burn if not balanced with potassium and calcium.

Flush soil with clean water every 1–2 months to reduce salt build-up. For feeding, switch to CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid NPK 20-20-20 at half strength, or rotate with CompleteGrow Cal-Mag Nutrients to protect root and leaf health.

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FAQs: Anthurium Brown Leaf Tips

Should I cut off brown leaf tips?
Yes, trim them back with clean scissors. This prevents further stress and helps the plant direct energy to new growth.

Can too much fertiliser cause brown tips?
Absolutely. Over-fertilising is the leading cause of leaf tip burn in anthuriums.

How often should I fertilise anthuriums to avoid this?
Feed every 2–3 weeks during growth with diluted CompleteGrow NPK 20-20-20, and reduce in winter.

Does low humidity cause brown tips?
Yes, dry air makes tips brown faster. Aim for 60–70% humidity indoors for healthier leaves.