Expert: Greg Simpson - 3/30/2006

Question
Hello,

I have read some of your A&Q and concluded that i have over
watered the yacca plant that i have.

One of the younger stalk at the bottom of the plant is rotting
from the core ( where the new leave are suppose to be growing
from). Should i cut it off? How should i do it?

The rest of the plant have lost a lot of leaves recently and its colour is
now pale green now.  How can i make it happy again?

It is kept indoor in sunny singapore sitting next to the window.  
In a Hydroculture pot with a watering meter.  How do i keep it
happy in the furture?

Please advise.  Thank you.

Answer
Dear Lan,

Unfortunately, what you are describing sounds like root rot. It starts at the roots and works its way through the rest of the plant. Your best bet with Yucca's are to only water when the soil is dry, especially if it is humid where you live.

Press on the trunk of the plant, if it is soft, it is time to buy a new one. If the trunk is still firm, stop watering it and only water when the soil is dry to about an inch or two deep (it will take some time to recover, if it does). Sorry for the bad news. Good luck!

Sincerely,

Greg