Dealing With Brown Leaves on Your Philodendron Imperial Green

If you’re a proud plant parent of a Philodendron imperial green, you know just how stunning its large glossy green leaves can be. But when those leaves start turning brown, it can be worrying. What causes brown leaves on Philodendron imperial greens and how can you fix it? Read on to find out.

What Causes Brown Leaves on Philodendron Imperial Greens?

There are a few key culprits behind brown leaves on Philodendron imperial greens

Overwatering

Too much water can easily cause root rot, leading to brown, mushy spots on the leaves. Philodendrons prefer their soil to dry out a bit between waterings. Check the soil with your finger before watering – if it’s still damp 2-3 inches down, hold off for a few more days.

Always make sure your plant has drainage holes too. Sitting in soggy soil will suffocate the roots.

Underwatering

While overwatering is more common, letting your Philodendron imperial green dry out too much can also cause brown crispy spots. Check the leaves and soil before watering – if leaves are drooping or soil is completely dry, it’s thirsty.

Sunburn

Too much direct sun will scorch the leaves, leaving brown sunburnt patches behind. Philodendron imperial greens like bright, indirect light. An east or west facing window is ideal. Move it if sunlight is hitting the leaves directly.

Cold Drafts

While they thrive in warmth, cold drafts can damage the leaves. Keep your imperial green away from drafty windows, air vents, or doors leading outside.

Pests

Spider mites, mealybugs, and other pesky bugs can all feed on the leaves, leaving brown spots and damage behind. Treat any infestations immediately to prevent spreading. Wipe leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Mineral Buildup

Using tap water high in minerals like fluoride can cause brown crispy tips. Switch to distilled, rainwater, or filtered water if possible.

How to Treat Brown Leaves on Your Philodendron Imperial Green

If your imperial green has developed brown spots, there are a few things you can do:

• Adjust your watering schedule if you suspect over or underwatering. Check the soil before watering and let it dry out more between waterings.

• Move to a spot with bright, indirect light if you notice sunburnt patches. East or west facing windows are best.

• Inspect thoroughly for any pests like spider mites. Treat with insecticidal soap spray if found.

• Switch to filtered, distilled or rainwater if your water contains high mineral levels.

• Trim off any very damaged leaves with sterilized scissors. Don’t remove more than 20% of leaves at once.

• Consider repotting in fresh, well-draining soil if root rot is suspected. Trim off damaged roots first.

How to Prevent Brown Leaves on Your Philodendron Imperial Green

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to brown leaves. Follow these tips for healthy, green growth:

• Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings. Check with your finger first.

• Water with room temperature filtered or distilled water if possible. Let water reach room temp before using.

• Keep in bright, indirect light. Some gentle morning or evening sun is great.

• Maintain room temps between 65-80°F. Keep away from cold drafts.

• Mist leaves occasionally to increase humidity.

• Fertilize every 2-3 months during growing season with a balanced houseplant fertilizer.

• Repot when rootbound into a slightly larger pot with drainage holes.

• Wipe leaves down once a month to prevent pest infestations.

• Propagate every 2-3 years to maintain a younger, healthier plant.

• Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves promptly.

When to Be Concerned About Brown Leaves

As long as you can identify the cause and take action, a few brown leaves here and there are not too concerning. But watch for these red flags:

• Multiple leaves rapidly turning brown or yellow
• Soft, mushy brown spots indicating root rot
• Webbing, insects, eggs or sticky residue on leaves
• Brown spots spreading rapidly across multiple leaves
• Stems turning brown or soft
• Foul odor from soil
• Drooping unthrifty appearance

If you notice any of these, inspect the roots immediately for root rot. Severely infected plants may not recover, so early intervention is key.

Enjoy Your Gorgeous Imperial Green

While brown leaves might occasionally happen, a little attentive care will keep your Philodendron imperial green thriving for years to come. The key is paying close attention to your plant’s needs and adjusting your care accordingly. With the right balance of water, light and care, you can enjoy huge glossy green leaves that will be the envy of all your plant parent friends!