Expert: Darlene K. Kittle - 10/30/2009

Question
My tree leaves are turning brown and dry. New growth is coming in from the bottom of the pot but the upper leaves are browning and drying. I have it in regular soil the soil it came with. What can I do to save this plant. its important to me. Thanks Billy

Answer
Billy,

You need to kind out exactly what type of palm it is and what it's needs are and care for it accordingly. Off the top of my head the biggest problem with palms with the problems you describe is that they are being overwatered and it may not be getting enough sunshine. When you water you need to empty the drain tray 30 minutes after watering so it is not sitting in water which can cause the roots to rot. Then you need to let the soil dry out well between waterings. Insert a bamboo skewer into the soil an cut it off an inch above the surface of the soil. Pull it out when you feel it is time to water and if it is dry down to the bottom inch it is time to water but if it is still moist you should not water it until it is dry. The plant needs to dry out between waterings. Plants in nature cannot stand to stay wet constantly or they die, plants in pots are the same. Cut back on the amount of water you give it and the frequency of waterings and your palm will be healthier. Good luck.

Darlene