Native to the very dry Mexican Chihuahua Desert, Yucca rostrata - also known as the blue-leaved palm lily because of its steel-blue leaves - has been gaining popularity among plant lovers for several years. As long as you follow a few instructions regarding proper care, the tree is pleasantly uncomplicated.
How do you properly care for the Yucca rostrata?
Proper care for Yucca rostrata includes a sunny location, cactus soil, sparing watering, monthly fertilization during the growing season and proper overwintering depending on the location. Regularly removing dead leaves promotes the he alth of the plant.
Which location does Yucca rostrata prefer?
The Yucca rostrata is a desert plant and as such requires a hot and sunny location. During the summer months, the plant feels particularly comfortable outdoors. During the cold season you should bring potted plants inside. Since the Yucca species is frost hardy down to minus 20 degrees, outdoor plantings can remain in the bed with crown protection.
In which substrate should you plant the Yucca rostrata?
Place the Yucca rostrata in cactus soil or, if you want to mix it yourself, in garden soil mixed with sand, compost and perlite. Above all, make sure that there is very good drainage - the Big Bend Yucca (as it is known in English) does not tolerate moisture.
How often should you water Yucca rostrata?
The right time to water has come when the substrate in the pot has dried to a depth of approx. two centimeters (finger test!). Do not water the plant thoroughly and immediately remove excess water from the saucer or planter.
When and with what can you fertilize the Yucca rostrata?
You can use commercially available liquid fertilizer (€9.00 on Amazon) or fertilizer sticks to fertilize the Yucca rostrata. Fertilization is carried out approximately once a month during the growing season.
Can you cut the Yucca rostrata?
In principle, the Big Bend yucca does not need to be cut, but you should remove the dead leaves, especially in spring. If the plant becomes too large over the years, you can cut off secondary shoots and crowns with a sharp knife and shorten the tree.
How to propagate Yucca rostrata?
The plant parts mentioned can be used as cuttings. Plant them straight away in cactus soil and never place them in water to root.
What is the best way to overwinter the Yucca rostrata?
The Yucca rostrata is hardy down to minus 20 degrees and can be brought indoors in autumn. It is overwintered in the light at 10 to 12 degrees. If the yucca is planted outdoors and has he althy root growth, it will not be affected by cold temperatures down to minus 20 degrees. It is then enough to protect the crown from moisture and snow. However, do not wrap the plant with foil as this can spread fungi.
What pests and diseases occur on Yucca rostrata?
Pests are almost unknown when it comes to Yucca rostrata, although fungal infestation can occur, especially in connection with moisture.
Tip
Brown, dry spots on the leaves are usually an indication of excess moisture.
