Expert: Maureen - 12/23/2011

Question
QUESTION: I have a small zebra plant (dark green leaves with raised, white, horizontal patterns that look like zebra stripes), and just recently I noticed that the top 3/4 of the plant has become floppy and leans on one side of the stalk, like it has been broken (though it hasn't). I thought it was just because the plant was getting topheavy (since it does have lots of new growth on the top), but it just recently started leaning. I've attached a few images (since I'm probably not doing a good job explaining).

What's going on, and can I save my plant?

ANSWER: Deaer Brittany,

Thanks for the photos!  From what I can see, it looks like your plant has rot at the base and that is why it is listing.  You can seperate the unaffected top of the plant and try to root that or even a clean leaf. Let it dry out for a few days first.  As for the bottom, I'm afraid that there isn't much you can do at this point.  The rot looks pretty bad, as evidenced by the extension into the lower leaves - note the change in color about 1/4 to 1/3 out from the base.  You need to throw out all the affected plant AND it's soil - don't compost it.  Generally rot is a result of either over watering or some insult to the plant (it can bea tiny opening that allows a fungus or bacteria into the tissues.  It can be quite destructive before one even notices it.  These plants don't lean when they are healthy.

I wish I had better news for you.  I'm so sorry.

Maureen

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Oh dear. I've let it dry out since last night, so should a give it a few more days before attempting to separate it? How would I go about trying to root it (considering I separate the top unaffected section of the plant)?

Sorry for all the questions, but I've never had to root a succulent before and I'll admit I'm kind of a newbie and don't want to do more harm than good. I really love the little guy and I don't want to lose it if there's something I can do to save it.

Thanks!

Answer
Dear Brittany,

I would seperate the healthy part of the plant as soon as possible as the rot is extending up. It should be obvious to you when you seperate the plant.  It is mushy and discolored.  You will need to look to see if there is rot in what looks to be healthy as it may not be initially obvious.  You can let it dry to air for awhile so if you can't start a plant immediately it's fine really let the base of leaves and the healthy top section dry well in air.

Then, get a sterile soiless mix and add more builder's sand or perlite to that - (you can microwave it for 3 min. if you can find sterile medium).  It has to drain really well.  Moisten it, and let just the ends of the leaves touch the soil.  It can take quite awhile to root.  I wouldn't water it again, just mist once or twice a week, until you see new growth.  It can be tricky, at least it is for me.  I suggest you treat yourself to a back up zebra just in case.

In the winter I only water my succulents when they are really dry - maybe once a month.  They hold a lot of water and are semi-dormant so don't require a lot of moisture.

Good luck and keep me posted. Pease don't hesitate to write if you have any more questions.
Maureen