Expert: Diana Hamilton - 8/13/2009

Question
I've waterlogged my yucca plant. It has two stems, the taller one sits at 19". It appears to be balding but the smaller one (sitting at 8") looks fine. The soil is smelly too. What can I do to save Henry (my Yucca)? At the moment it's sitting in the sun as I'm trying to dry it out. I would be greatful for any advice given.

Thanks Jenn x

Answer
Hello Jennifer,

Remove the plant from the pot and let the soil dry out completely which could take a couple of days.  Since the soil is smelly it sounds as if the roots have rotted or are part rotted.  If they are brown and mushy then that is root rot.  If there is not too much rot you will be able to tease out the brown roots and cut them off.  I am guessing since the smaller plant looks fine that there could be just a few rotted roots.

Remove as much of the compost as you can and re-pot with fresh compost and water with a solution specially formulated for root rot which you will be able to get at your local garden store.  Follow the instructions on the container.  When you see new growth then water again.

Hopefully Henry will be saved!  Good Luck

Diana