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Why Does my Crispy Wave Plant Have Brown Spots?

Updated: October 12, 2022

Crispy wave plants, also known as ferns, are popular indoor plants that are beloved for their striking, wavy leaves. However, if you notice brown spots developing on your crispy wave plant, it can be concerning. In this article, we will explore the common causes of brown spots on crispy wave plants and how to treat them.

Common Causes of Brown Spots on Crispy Wave Plants

Overwatering

One of the most common causes of brown spots on crispy wave plants is overwatering. These plants do not need a lot of water and prefer to dry out between waterings. If the soil is constantly wet or saturated, it can cause root rot and lead to brown spots on the leaves.

Solution: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. When you do water your plant, make sure to water deeply until water drains out of the bottom of the pot. You can also consider repotting your plant in well-draining soil to prevent overwatering.

Underwatering

On the other hand, underwatering can also cause brown spots on crispy wave plants. When these plants do not receive enough water, their leaves will begin to dry out and turn brown.

Solution: Make sure to water your crispy wave plant regularly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. You can also mist the leaves with water to increase humidity levels and prevent them from drying out.

Low Humidity

Crispy wave plants thrive in high humidity environments, and low humidity levels can cause brown spots on their leaves. This is because low humidity can cause the leaves to dry out and become brittle.

Solution: Increase the humidity levels around your plant by placing a humidifier nearby or by placing a tray of pebbles filled with water under the pot. You can also mist the leaves regularly or group your plants together to create a microclimate of higher humidity.

Pests

Pests such as spider mites and mealybugs can also cause brown spots on crispy wave plants. These insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing damage to the leaves.

Solution: Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pests such as webbing, white cottony patches, or tiny bugs. If you find any, treat your plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.

How to Prevent Brown Spots on Crispy Wave Plants

Preventing brown spots on crispy wave plants requires proper care and maintenance. Here are some tips to help you prevent brown spots from developing:

  • Water your plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
  • Make sure your plant is in well-draining soil and that water can easily flow through the pot’s drainage holes.
  • Increase humidity levels around your plant by misting the leaves regularly or using a humidifier.
  • Inspect your plant regularly for signs of pests and treat them immediately if you find any.
  • Keep your plant away from direct sunlight and in a bright, indirect location.

FAQ

Can I cut off the brown spots on my crispy wave plant?

Yes, you can prune off brown spots on your crispy wave plant using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Make sure to cut just below the damaged area and sterilize your tools before and after use.

How often should I fertilize my crispy wave plant?

Crispy wave plants do not need a lot of fertilizer. You can fertilize them once a month during their growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Can crispy wave plants be grown outdoors?

Crispy wave plants are typically grown indoors as they prefer warm, humid environments. However, they can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11 in a shaded, protected area with well-draining soil.

In conclusion, brown spots on crispy wave plants can be caused by a variety of factors such as overwatering, underwatering, low humidity, and pests. By properly caring for your plant and addressing any issues promptly, you can prevent brown spots from developing and keep your crispy wave plant healthy and beautiful.