Should I trim the brown tips off?

Yes, you can trim them with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. It will not hurt the plant.

Does wind cause brown tips?

Yes, strong winds can dry out the stems quickly. If your plant is in a windy spot, consider moving it to a more sheltered area.

Water horsetail: brown tips, causes and fixes

Check these first

Measure the water level to ensure it covers the roots.
Check if the water has evaporated below the soil line.
Test your water source for high mineral content.

Likely causes

Water level drop
Most likely
How to tell: The tips turn crisp and brown while the soil surface feels dry. This happens if the water level falls below the crown of the plant.
What to do: Top off the container immediately with fresh water. Ensure the water level stays at least 1 to 2 inches above the soil line at all times.
High mineral content
Possible
How to tell: Brown tips appear even when the water level is perfect. This is often caused by a buildup of salts or minerals in the water.
What to do: Flush the container with fresh rainwater or distilled water. Avoid using tap water that has been softened, as the salt content can harm the plant.

Brown tips on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your water horsetail

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

A few brown tips are common during hot, windy weather. Worry if the browning is spreading rapidly down the entire length of the stem.

Stopping it coming back

Monitor your water levels daily during hot weather to prevent the plant from drying out.

Water horsetail: brown tips? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your water horsetail and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Should I trim the brown tips off?: Yes, you can trim them with clean scissors to keep the plant looking tidy. It will not hurt the plant.
Does wind cause brown tips?: Yes, strong winds can dry out the stems quickly. If your plant is in a windy spot, consider moving it to a more sheltered area.

Why are the tips of my water horsetail turning brown?