Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Check the soil moisture with your finger.
- Observe the air humidity levels in your room.
- Inspect the leaves for signs of pests.
Likely causes
Low Humidity
Most likelyHow to tell: The leaf tips become dry and brittle while the rest of the leaf remains green.
What to do: Place your plant on a pebble tray filled with water to increase local humidity. You can also mist the leaves daily or run a humidifier nearby.
Underwatering
PossibleHow to tell: The soil feels dry more than an inch deep and the plant looks generally thirsty.
What to do: Water your plant thoroughly until liquid drains from the bottom. Ensure you water every 3 to 7 days to keep the soil evenly moist.
When to worry
It is normal for very old leaves to develop small brown tips as they age. Worry if the browning spreads rapidly across new growth.
Stopping it coming back
Keep the plant away from heating vents and maintain consistent soil moisture.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your cardamom.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Should I trim the brown tips off?
- Yes, you can trim the brown parts with clean scissors for aesthetic reasons. Just be careful not to cut into the healthy green tissue.
- Does tap water cause brown tips?
- Sometimes, if your tap water has high mineral content, it can cause salt buildup. Try using filtered or distilled water if the problem persists.
More problems with Cardamom
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.