How to Prune a Yucca Tree With Root Rot
Plants in the Yucca genus, which contains over 20 species of perennial evergreen trees originally grown in desert conditions, are known to tolerate drought well but often succumb to overwatering in home environments. An outdoor resident in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 9, though often kept indoors in other climates, the yucca is highly susceptible to root rot if not properly maintained.
In the wild, yuccas tend to grow in full sun on dry soil, according to Clemson University. The plants can tolerate a wide variety of soil conditions as long as the soil is not overly wet. Little maintenance is required besides making sure the soil stays in optimal conditions.
According to the University of Florida, root rot is more common in wet soils and can be made worse by cool temperatures and plants that are weakened by other conditions, like nutrient deficiencies.
A yucca tree suffering from root rot, according to the University of California, will develop leaves that wilt or turn black and drop off, drooping branches and a soft trunk, mimicking the signs of a drought-stressed plant. Once root rot has set in, only careful root pruning and a correction in care may revive affected trees.
1. Remove Yucca From Pot
Pull the yucca plant out of its pot and shake the dirt from the roots. Examine the roots for signs of rot, such as discoloration and a mushy texture. If most of the roots are rotted, the plant cannot be saved. If rot is minimal, however, a change in care can restore health to the plant.
2. Prune the Roots
Prune the rotten sections from the roots, cutting just above the damage. Discard cut pieces, keeping them far from the plant. Between cuts, clean the pruning shears with a 10 percent bleach solution to prevent spreading disease.
3. Remove Rotten Areas
Slice out any rotten sections from the base of the trunk. Prune any wilting, blackened leaves or wood.
4. Disinfect the Pot
Disinfect the yucca's pot or container with a 10 percent bleach solution, soaking it for 30 minutes, or replace the container.
5. Replant Your Yucca
Replant the yucca in the cleaned or new container. Fill the container with a potting mixture that contains 3 parts peat and 1 part sand.
6. Treat with Fungicide
Treat the soil with a fungicide that contains thiophanate-methyl to eliminate any fungal infections that may have contributed to the root rot. According to the IFAS Central Florida Research and Education Center, it's important to check for pests that can swoop in and attack vulnerable plants, too, like root mealybugs, at this time.
7. Prevent Rot From Returning
In the future, cut back on watering and make sure the water drains out of the pot easily to prevent root rot from returning. Water yucca plants only when the top of the soil is completely dry, and make sure the plant receives at least six hours of direct sunlight during the day.
Things You Will Need
- Cut back on watering and make sure the water drains out of the pot easily to prevent root rot from returning. Water yucca plants only when the top of the soil is completely dry, and make sure the plant receives at least six hours of direct sunlight during the day.