Question
I have a new indoor palm tree.  It stays in my bedroom where it does not get much sunlight.  I sat it on my porch for an afternoon due to it not receiving much sunlight and it appeared that the leaves got sunburned.  They turned brown on the places where the leaves arch in the middle.  Now the leaves are turning brown in other places.  I am not sure what to do or the exact species my palm is.  I was so proud of my plants indoor because I haven't ever gotten anything to live long enough, the rest of my plants are doing great besides this one.  Thank you for your help!

Answer
Not all palms are created equal. Some thrive only in a brightly lit sunny location, while others tolerate the lower light levels that are more typical   Since a well-grown palm is not inexpensive, regardless of size, it pays to choose carefully, keeping light levels in its ultimate destination in mind as you shop.

If you're thinking of a dimly lit corner, forget it! Even the so-called "shade-tolerant" palms need fairly bright indirect light most of the day. Without adequate light your plant will lose all its lower fronds and look like a stick -- or series of sticks -- with a few leaves on top.

Daily Care

Though their light requirements may differ, all these palms have similar needs when it comes to water and fertilizer. In fact, dried brown leaf tips or leaf margins, two of the most common problems facing indoor palms, are related -- directly or indirectly -- to how they are watered and fertilized.

Keep palms relatively moist. In spring and summer, or when temperatures are warm and days are longer, water them as soon as their soil feels dry a little below the surface. Allow the soil to get slightly drier in winter.

It's important that potting soil drains well and containers you use have functioning drain holes. Water palms thoroughly, then spill or siphon off excess water that collects in the tray or saucer below the pot.

Fertilize lightly from late winter through early autumn, the time when houseplants are likely to grow most actively. A build-up of fertilizer salts in the soil results in those dreaded brown tips and edges, especially if you allow the soil to get too dry between watering. If you're unsure about fertilizing, err on the side of too little rather than too much. You can always fertilize again, if necessary.

Finally, keep palm fronds clean. Spider mites are attracted to dusty foliage and can balloon into a serious problem, particularly in winter when relative humidity is low indoors.