dry air

What you’re seeing

Crisp or browned leaf tips/edges, leaf curling, buds that dry before opening, or rapid evaporation from saucers. Indoor readings commonly below 35–40% RH (relative humidity).

What it is

Air that’s drier than your plant prefers—common in heated or air-conditioned rooms. Dry air accelerates water loss from leaves, stressing thin-leaf and tropical species.

Is action needed?

Often yes, especially for humidity-loving plants. Improving local humidity reduces tip burn and bud drop.

How to confirm

Hygrometer reading: RH consistently < 40%.
Pattern: Tips/borders brown first while mid-leaf stays green; soil moisture may still be fine.
Seasonality: Worse in winter with heating or in hot, windy summers.

What to do

Hydrate the root zone first. Keep watering consistent; humidity helps but doesn’t replace watering.
Cluster plants. Grouping creates a localized moist pocket.
Use a room humidifier near plants, set to 45–55% RH, cleaned weekly.
Tray method: A wide tray of water + pebbles under (not touching) pots increases local RH.
Reduce leaf stress: Bright indirect light; avoid midday sun and strong fans.
Avoid frequent misting for thin leaves—it raises RH only minutes and can spot leaves in strong light.

Prevention tips

Choose plants that match your home’s baseline RH.
Keep plants away from heat/AC vents, radiators, and door drafts.
Focus on ambient RH (humidifier, trays, grouping) and steady root-zone watering; avoid changing pot size just to address dry air.

Salt buildup from fertilizer/very hard water can mimic brown tips—leach the pot.
Under-watering causes similar crisp edges—check soil moisture pattern.