Expert: Jeff - 7/28/2004

Question
Hi Jeff,
I have an indoor Yucca, and I am very worried about it because it looks sick.  I've only had it for about 6 weeks, and I water it once a week.  The plant has 2 stalks, and the leaves have developed white and brown spots/bumps all over them.  Also the tips of some of the leaves are turning brown.
What should I do?  Can I revive my Yucca?
Thanks for your help!
Best,
Brooke

Answer
Dear Brooke,

It may have insect damage, but it sounds as if you're watering it too much. Is it in very porous soil? You should perhaps water it only when the soil's gone dry. In the meantime, depot it, let it dry out a bit, get more-porous soil to repot it in. In a few days, repot it and give it a shot of liquid vitamin B1 in some water a few days after that.

You might be able to revive it. I myself don't grow yuccas but the advice above is for any succulent plant that's been overwatered but (I am hopeful of) capable of being revived.

Kind regards,

Jeff