From Colorado State University Cooperative Extension
If you don't like the dead tips on the leaves of your plants, use a sharp pair of scissors or pruners to clip the dead portion of the leaf off. If is a good idea to get rid of this dead tissue, anyway, as it can become infected with disease. And, because it is dead, it doesn't do the plant any good. To protect against the possibility of disease, periodically dip scissors or pruners in rubbing alcohol. This kills any disease pathogens that might be on the tools.
Photograph courtesy of Judy Sedbrook.
© CSU/Denver County Extension Master Gardener 2010
888 E. Iliff Avenue, Denver, CO 80210
Date last revised: 01/05/2010