Plant Doctor Archive

Does my Yucca need repotting?

I have a problem with my yucca plant. I have had it for about a year now and have never repotted it. Now all the leaves from the bottom have turned yellow and dropped off and there are only 2 leaves (new ones) left on top. I feel it is dying. I have seen some houses that have yuccas; they pot them with a gravelly mix they say is especially for yuccas. I have since looked around to see if I can find it but to no avail. Could you please advise as to what that gravel is called, whether it is for yuccas only, or whether my yucca just needs repotting?

Yes, it certainly sounds like this yucca needs repotting and now is a good time to do it. The gravelly stuff you mention is likely to be potting mix with small river stones added to improve drainage. This is not absolutely essential; a quality potting mix from your local garden centre will have adequate drainage and fertiliser for your yucca.

To repot, remove the plant from its existing pot, run a knife down the roots in about three places to stimulate new root growth and repot into a new pot at least two sizes bigger than the pot you are taking it out of. Water your yucca in well after repotting.

Over the winter months water your plant sparingly. From spring through to autumn water regularly and liberally. Liquid feed with Phostrogen or Lush in the warmer months.

Advice by Dr Dan Blanchon from Unitec's Diploma in Sustainable Horticulture and Bachelor of Resource Management.

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