What Makes the Ends of Ginger Houseplant Leaves Turn Brown?

Identification

• Ginger is also known as shell ginger and is a herbaceous perennial grown both outdoors and as a houseplant. Native to Eastern Asia, ginger is a member of the Zingiberaceae family and typically reaches heights of 2 to 4 feet. Ginger thrives in full sun or partial shade and is relatively free from damaging pests and diseases. However, this plant may turn brown at the tips in certain instances.

Temperature

• Ginger grows best in tropical climates and is susceptible to winter injury. Cold indoor temperatures and humidity in very low levels may cause this plant to have brown tips on otherwise healthy green leaves. According to the Missouri Botanical Garden, ginger requires high humidity to avoid over-drying of its leaves. During the winter, indoor humidity levels are lower. Placing your ginger in a humid room, such as the bathroom, may help reduce symptoms associated with low humidity. Keeping your house above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, during the day, will also help reduce winter browning.

Insects

• Spider mites are common pests of both indoor and outdoor plants. Heavy spider mite feeding removes plant sap from the leaves, which causes them to become flecked and turn brown or bronze. Spider mites are arachnids that have eight legs instead of six, like insects. These mites are very tiny and difficult to spot. Heavy spider mite feeding can kill infested houseplants. One sign that your ginger is infested with spider mites is a fine silk webbing placed over the leaves of the plant. Spraying your houseplants with a brisk jet of water dislodges spider mites and keeps them under control. Repeat water sprays two or three times each week for best results. If your ginger is heavily infested with spider mites, miticides are available at your local garden center for control. Apply miticide thoroughly as this product must coat insects to kill them.

Fertilizers

• Over-fertilizing your houseplants can cause the foliage to turn brown at the leaf margins and tips. Use a fertilizer that contains nitrogen, potassium and phosphoric acid for the best results. Most houseplant fertilizers are 20-20-20 and provide plants with the necessary nutrients to maintain a healthy green appearance. Always apply fertilizers, according to the directions, for the best outcome.