Watering

• Improper irrigation practices increase plant stress and cause the foliage to appear brown, dry and burnt. Over watering the indoor plant to the extent of causing puddles around it base prevents its roots from absorbing and transporting oxygen, thereby causing the foliage to gradually turn brown and appear burnt. Conversely, under watering the plant, especially during periods of prolonged drought or when exposed to direct sunlight, causes the foliage to wilt, dry up, burn and drop prematurely. Although irrigation requirements of indoor plants differ, water immediately when the soil surface appears dry. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes, and fill it with well-draining potting soil.
  
  

Salt Buildup

• Accumulated fertilizer salts dampen plant health and cause the foliage to dry and appear burnt. Salt buildup appears as a white crusty layer on the surface of the soil or around the rim of the container. The fertilizer minerals prevent the plant from taking up water, thereby causing the leaves to dry, shrivel and appear burnt. To prevent fertilizer buildup, always follow label directions for fertilizing indoor plants. Douse the potted plant with water once every four weeks so accumulated salts leech out through the drainage holes.
  
  

Sunlight

• Prolonged sunlight exposure causes the foliage of most houseplants to burn and dry. The problem exacerbates during the summer or prolonged periods of drought. Initial symptoms of sun scorch include drying or burnt leaf tips that gradually spread to cover the entire leaf surface unless corrected. Move the potted plant back a few feet from a sunny window to provide it indirect light, or hang a lightweight curtain to block out direct rays of the sun.
  
  

Pests

• Similar to garden plants, houseplants attract a variety of insect pests including beetles, aphids, thrips, mites and mealy bugs. Although individual symptoms of pest infestations vary, most cause the foliage to appear brown or black, wilt and fall off prematurely. While some pests feed off plant juices with sucking mouth parts, others secrete honeydew that attracts ants and increases chances of sooty mold. Inspect the foliage of the plant regularly for the presence of tiny pests and treat immediately to prevent spread. Wipe a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol over infestations or dilute 2 tbsp. dishwashing detergent in 1 gallon of water and spray the pests.