Brown, crispy leaf tips
Brown, dry tips or edges mean the tree is drying out somewhere — at the roots, in the air, or from the sun.
Likely causes
Underwatering or dry air
How to tell: Tips and edges are brown and brittle, and the soil dries out very fast.
The fix: Water more consistently; for indoor trees, group plants together or stand the pot on a humidity tray.
Sun scorch
How to tell: Brown patches on the side facing strong sun, appearing during a heatwave.
The fix: Shade the tree during the hottest hours and water in the evening so it goes into the heat hydrated.
Fertiliser burn
How to tell: Tips turn brown soon after a heavy feed.
The fix: Flush the soil with plenty of water, then feed less often at half strength.
How to prevent it
Consistent watering, shade in extreme heat, and gentle feeding.
Common questions
Will the brown tips turn green again?
No — damaged tissue stays brown. Fix the cause so the next flush of growth comes in healthy.
General guidance based on 20+ years of practice. Every tree is different — when in doubt, ask us.