Question

sick crown of thorns   I have a wonderful crown of thorns that I have had for over 20 years. I ususlly take it outside in the summer where it thrives. This year I propogated several plants for presents and it was very satisfying. My problem is that it and the babies have developed some kind of disease. I am attaching a picture for clarification. Is there anything I can do to save it?

Answer
Dear Pam, I am so glad that you included this picture.  If you will look on the inside rim of the pot, you will see a white, gritty substance.  This is salt buildup, and I believe that your crown of thorns is suffering from the excess salt.  The best remedy is to CAREFULLY, so as not to bother tender new roots, remove the plant from the pot, lay it on some newspaper, then take the pot and scrub all of the salt off the pot.  You will know that it is gone when your pot looks almost like a new pot.  Then repot the crown of thorns, flushing several times to get the soil clear (or use new soil), and put the pot in bright light and leave it alone.  Additionally,  if you water the pot in a saucer, be sure to dump the excess water in the saucer afterwards, because this can increase the likelihood of fungus and more salt buildup.  If you are still concerned about the plant's health (and it may pick up more problems when it is in a weakened state), then you can spray the plant with NEEM, a handy organic product to have around, as it controls insects, mites, and fungus and is great for an all-purpose remedy.  I do think the spots are from the salt buildup, so the new leaves should come out unaffected once you scrub and repot.  Oh yes, the reason that you see the symptoms on the babies rather than the old plant is probably because with younger roots, the babies are more affected.  I hope this information helps.  Sorry for the delay in getting back to you, but Happy New Year!  Good luck, Melissa