Expert: Greg Simpson - 9/2/2007

Question
Greg,

I have a yucca planted outdoors in Tucson.  It has 2 main branches and is 4-5 feet tall.  Both branches had stalks and flowers this year.  1 branch just split in a wind storm, has about 25 still connected and is leaning on the ground.  Should I cut it off and plant it next to the original plant?

Answer
Ron,

Depending on what species of Yucca, it may or may not root. If the stem is 3 inches or less in diameter, you can try to root it. You can purchase a rooting hormone gel at a local nursery (not Home Depot) which will help. Plant it in a pot that is mostly sand (at least 50%) and keep it out of direct sunlight (afternoon shade is ideal) and water once a week. If it roots, and that is a big "IF", it can take months to recover. However, the odds are not good that it will root. Good luck.

Sincerely,

Greg