Expert: Greg Simpson - 3/28/2006

Question
Hi there Greg!

I was recently given a yucca plant from my girlfriend, I don't know the exact type, but here is a picture of it:

http://www.evergrowing.com/tips/images/yucca.jpg

I have read on this page that you should not water it too much and let the soil dry out.

I watered the plant not more than a week ago and the soil is dry I think (It does not stick to my finger if I insert it in the soil) and if you press down on the soil it is sort of rubbery, it springs back.

I think it is in a good sized pot. The stem is about 5cm across and the pot is about 15.

The plant looks just fine for now, but I don't want anything to happen to it. Can you give me some tips to calm my soul? :D

Thanks so much,

Daniel

Answer
Dear Daniel,

Watering is tricky business. You have to take into account what time of year it is as well as the humidity where you live. Typically I let the soil dry out almost to the point of wilting (tough to tell with a Yucca). In your case, I would let the soil dry so it felt dry to the touch about 2" deep in the soil.

If you live in a humid part of the country, it might take a month to get that way. If you live in a dry climate like me, it could only take a week to get that dry. Your Yucca looks lik a Yucca Gloriosa, which is not a desert plant and will take some excess watering, but not too much. Good luck!

Sincerely,

Greg