How to Prevent Brown Leaf Tips on Zebra Plant

Check out this video to find out the secret to preventing unsightly brown leaf tips on Zebra Plant (Aphelandra Squarrosa).

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I am here today with this beautiful Zebra Plant, known botanically as Aphelandra squarrosa. Today, I’m going to give you a quick tip on how to keep this plant from getting brown leaf tips.

As you can see, all the growth on this plant is healthy—no brown leaf tips at all. It’s actually a really easy solution to avoid those unsightly brown edges.

Zebra plants are very susceptible to fluoride, chloramines, and chlorine in water. Chlorine can dissipate if you let the water sit for 24 hours. However, chloramines, fluoride, and other heavy metals will not go away with time.

So what’s the secret to keeping this plant free of brown leaf tips and ensuring it flowers well? Use distilled or reverse osmosis water. I always use reverse osmosis water on this plant. Also, make sure you water all of your houseplants with warm to tepid water. I actually heat up some water and mix it with reverse osmosis water to make sure it’s the right temperature.

This handy tip keeps your Zebra Plant healthy and free from those yucky brown leaf tips. When I first got this plant several months ago, it did have some brown leaf tips on the older leaves. But now, all the new foliage looks great—no brown at all!

When fertilizing, be careful not to overdo it. Never use chemical fertilizers on Zebra Plants, as that will quickly lead to brown leaf tips. Use an organic fertilizer instead.

I do have a full care video on this plant, which I’ll link to so you can get more detailed growing instructions. Remember, if Zebra Plants get brown leaf tips, it can quickly spread up the leaf and become very unsightly.

So again, the key is distilled or reverse osmosis water and ensuring it’s warm when you water.

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Zebra Plant Care: How to Prevent Brown Leaf Tips

What causes brown leaf tips on Zebra Plants?

Brown leaf tips on Zebra Plants are usually caused by fluoride, chloramines, chlorine, or heavy metals in the water. Chemical fertilizers can also contribute.

What type of water should I use for Zebra Plants?

Use distilled or reverse osmosis water to prevent brown leaf tips and keep the plant healthy. Avoid tap water with chemicals like fluoride and chloramines.

Should the water be warm or cold?

Always use warm to tepid water when watering your Zebra Plant. Heating the water slightly helps prevent stress to the plant.

Can I use chemical fertilizers on Zebra Plants?

No, chemical fertilizers should be avoided. They can lead to brown leaf tips. Use organic fertilizer instead to keep your plant healthy.

How do I fix brown tips that are already on the plant?

Trim off damaged areas and switch to using distilled or reverse osmosis water. Over time, new growth will appear without brown tips if proper care is taken.

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