The yucca “palm” – which looks quite similar to a palm tree but is an agave plant – comes from the dry areas of the southern United States and parts of Mexico. There, the houseplant that is so popular with us has adapted perfectly to the prevailing living conditions and copes wonderfully with heat and dryness. The plant, on the other hand, does not like an excess of moisture; this often leads to root and later stem rot.
Why does the trunk of a yucca palm become soft?
A soft trunk on a yucca palm indicates waterlogging, which causes yellowing of the leaves and rot. To prevent rot, water the plant less and pay attention to drainage. If rot is advanced, save he althy parts of the plant as cuttings.
Yellow leaves, soft trunk: waterlogging is the cause
Waterlogging is initially noticeable through yellowing of the leaves. These become lighter, hang down and eventually dry up. Only in the advanced stages does the trunk become soft; In this case, the affected yucca as a whole can no longer be saved. All you can do is try to cut off the remaining he althy parts of the plant and root them as cuttings in a planter filled with potting soil (€10.00 on Amazon) and sand. For this purpose, do not place the cuttings in a glass of water - this will only encourage the rot to progress further.
Fungal pathogens cause wilt
Mushy, brown roots and a soft trunk with brown, possibly even rotten spots are a clear indication of advanced rot due to waterlogging. But it is not the wetness itself that causes the symptoms, but rather fungal pathogens. These mushrooms - they are different species - feel particularly comfortable in the moist, warm environment and multiply rapidly. Starting from the roots, the pathogens penetrate through the plant's ducts into the above-ground parts and cause rot there. The first yellow, drying leaves that appear are a sign that the rotten roots can no longer do their job and the above-ground shoots and leaves are drying out.
How to prevent stem rot
To prevent waterlogging and thus root and trunk rot, you can do the following:
- Water the yucca palm just a little! The substrate must be dry before you water.
- In hot months and in bright locations, the plant needs more water.
- Watering less in darker locations and in winter.
- Thorough drainage in the pot is extremely important.
- Do not leave excess water in the planter or saucer.
- Ensure good location conditions - as bright as possible.
Tip
React as quickly as possible - as soon as the first yellow leaves appear, the yucca should be checked thoroughly for any rotting roots.
