Question
Hello

A month ago we purchased a 6 foot Ming Tree. It did well at first by a window, but then the last two weeks we moved it a little further away and the leaves are dropping, etc. We have been careful not to water it too much.

It is showing new signs of growth despite the issue, any may indeed just be adjusting. It was bought in an ugly plastic bin, and we bought a ceramic pot semi glazed that is just about the same size as what it is in now, albeit a bit taller. We have rocks we can put in the bottom. We are eager to re-pot it in this new pot, but I wanted to ask if there was any particular process I should follow, and if the rocks should be at the bottom of the pot or in the dish?

thanks so much for your help and any guidance you may have

Answer
Hi Savanna,

Ming aralias can be quite temperamental, particularly about change. Keeping it close to the window will help it adjust to its new environment. The less light it receives, the more difficulties it will have adjusting to your home. Even in good light, you can expect some lower leaf loss as it adds new growth at the ends of stems.

Now is NOT a good time to repot your Ming. It is already under stress adapting to its new home and the added stress of repotting will make matters worse. Unnecessary repotting is the most common cause of plant failure. Wait at least 6 months before considering disturbing its roots by repotting.

I understand that you are not happy with the ugly plastic container it is now in. The solution is double-potting, not re-potting. Place the plastic pot inside a slightly larger, more attractive planter. This will cover up the ugly pot without disturbing the roots. When you water, pour out any excess water that may accumulate in the bottom of the decorative planter.

Next spring, your Ming will not require a larger pot until the soil dries out a few days after each thorough watering. Placing stones in the bottom of a pot when repotting is an out-of-date and discredited practice. When repotting, always use a potting mix that has porous material, such as perlite, spread throughout the potting mix and use only a pot that has a drainage hole. Porous soil and a drain hole are what will prevent excess accumulation of water around the roots.

I have written articles on Ming Aralia care and on repotting that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends 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