Question
Hi I have a corn plant that is about 3 feet tall and I've only had it for about 2 weeks now.  I've noticed that day by day the leaves keep getting a these brown spots on them and the tips of some of the leaves are also a bit brown.  I have a north facing window which my corn plant receives low light from and it is in a pot that is about 9-10 inches in diameter right now.  I know they can be easily over-watered and when i repotted it from the plastic container I purchased it in I noticed the soil was almost muddy-like around the roots.  I removed this and added fresh dry soil to the new pot and gave it a mild watering.  Since then, the leaves seem to still be getting these brown spots on them and some of the leaf tips are also still brown.  I've also noticed that the newer leaves seem to not have this problem as much and remain green.  What can I do so my corn plant doesn't die?! Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks!
Wes

Answer
Hi Wes,

Repotting your plant and substituting soil was not a good idea. If the soil was wet around the roots it was because you were watering it too frequently and not giving the soil a chance to dry out properly. Soil replacement only disturbs the roots and that dry soil will also get wet if you don't wait long enough between waterings. In general, it is best to allow the top quarter of the soil to dry out in between waterings.

The discoloration of older leaves is not necessarily a bad sign. It may be nothing more than normal aging. As long as new growth continues to be healthy, there is little cause for concern.

As long as your corn plant is within 5-6 feet of the north window and the window is uncovered, then all you need to be concerned with is allowing the soil to dry out properly. In the interim, trim off the brown tips.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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