Published on February 15, 2026
Humidity & Airflow: Preventing Mold and Fungal Issues
Why brown tips happen and how to keep air moving without causing drafts.
Key Takeaways
- Check soil moisture before watering.
- Look for signs of stress early.
- Consistency is key for recovery.
Most houseplants come from tropical rainforests where humidity is 70-90%. Our homes are usually 30-40%. This gap causes problems.
Signs of Low Humidity
- Brown, crispy edges: Especially on Calatheas and Ferns.
- Curling leaves: The plant is trying to reduce surface area to save water.
- Bud drop: Flowers fall off before opening.
How to Increase Humidity
- Group Plants: Plants transpire (release water), creating a microclimate.
- Pebble Tray: Place the pot on a tray of water and pebbles. Do not let the pot sit in the water.
- Humidifier: The gold standard. A cool-mist humidifier is the best investment for tropicals.
- Misting? Mostly useless. It raises humidity for 5 minutes and can cause fungal issues if water sits on leaves.
The Importance of Airflow
Stagnant, humid air = Mold and Rot.
- If you use a humidifier, run a small fan on “Low” nearby.
- Keep plants spaced out so leaves don’t touch.
- Powdery Mildew: White dust on leaves. Caused by high humidity + poor airflow.
Check humidity requirements for your specific plant in PlantFun
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