Expert: Dr. Rakesh Kumar - 6/11/2007

Question
I am having problems with my two mass canes.I am not sure if they are in the bamboo family of not? They are both about 6-feet tall. They did great for about two years,but now they only have greenery at the top of the tallest "pole". They both have about 4-poles.And the other"poles" seem to be dried up and dead.Do I pull them out?They get bright indirect sunlight watered when dry and no sign of diseases.I am afraid it's too late.They do not look very appealing with only one live"pole".I was hoping to see if new greenery would sprout but, so far no signs.Except on one of the canes has greenery sprouting from the soil.What do I do?

Answer
Dear Jennifer
It is very difficult to cure the problem on the basis of the information you delivered. Whether, infection starts from apical end or basal. Plz check first termite attack then water condition. It may be due to excess water also. You can remove the infected culm by cutting at ground level. If problem persists then plz inform me again.
Rakesh