Question
The ponytail palm needs to be re potted but we need to know what to re pot it with?

Answer
Hi Josh,

Ponytail Palms are native to arid regions where rain is scarce and infrequent. Consequently, the plant has evolved to survive drought. It's large base bulb stores water so it can survive long periods without water. Likewise, its roots are structured to absorb water quickly and then dry out for extended periods of time.

All of this is impornat to understanding the requirements of this plant when used indoors. It must be potted in a small pot with a porous potting mix that dries out quickly after each watering. A pot that is too large will have extra soil that will retain water for too long and cause the roots to rot. For that reason Ponytail Palms are always kept in pots that are just barely wide enough to accommodate the bulb at its widest circumference. Unnecessary repotting is a sure way to cause root rot and lose this plant.

Although you did not provide any details, I am 99% sure your Ponytail Palm does not and should not be repotted. Because it looks too big for its pot is not a reliable indicator. Nor is the presence of roots wandering out of the drainage holes. If there is some other reason why you think it needs repotting let me know.

If you choose to ignore my advice and repot. Then, select a pot one inch larger and use a peat-based potting mix with added perlite to increase the drainage. Do NOT put 'drainage material' in the bottom of the pot.

I have written articles on repotting and on Ponytail Palm care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com