Find Your Ask the Expert: Brown Leaves
I got a Bromeliad ~ 1 month ago for my birthday. It is blooming beautifully. I re-potted it about a week after I got it. Now, the leaves are turning brown / yellow starting with the bottom leaves & working its way up. I am only watering once a week & just keeping the cup full. It is in indirect sunlight. What is the most likely culprit & what can I do to save the plant? It is so pretty, I don’t want to lose it.
Thank you in advance for your time!!! Below are the picture of my bromeliad.
Courtney
Courtney,
When you re-potted the bromeliad, did you cover the top of the root ball with extra soil. When re-potting the top of the existing root-ball should remain at the top uncovered. In other words, sit the plant on top of the new soil with the top of the root-ball about an inch below the rim of the container. Fill in the gap between the root-ball and the sides of the container, but do not place any extra soil on the top of the root-ball. Extra soil on top of the root-ball can create rotting. From the pictures, I think this is occurring.
Also, your soil looks very dry. You want to saturate the soil completely and then let it dry slightly between waterings. If you have time read the How To Care For Bromeliad post. It has information that I think would help you.
Why is this happening?q
If your leaves are browning, it most likely is a watering issue. The plant is either too wet or too dry. To learn how much water a bromeliad needs check out the how to care for Bromeliad link above.
How do I unbrown my bromeliad leaves should I cut them?
Attached Image: image.jpg
Megan,
Sorry — once they turn brown it stays brown. Cut the leaf off. At least most of the plant looks good and healthy.