Question
My Umbrella Plant's stalks are beginning to droop, what could possibly cause this? I have it in Miracle Grow organic soil, and keep a 20watt 6500k CFL over it 10-12 hours a day. The leaves appear to be healthy, they aren't turning color or dropping off. The last Umbrella Plant I had, I think I seriously overwatered it, because the stalks drooped and many bunches of leaves would wither and fall off. However this time the leaves are fine, it's just that the stalks are drooping. I've done very little watering, for fear of overwatering again. Any ideas what might be causing the problem?

Answer
Heather,

Water it well then empty the drain tray that is under the pot. If that perks it up you are keeping it too dry. I suspect that is the problem. I suggest that you pick up some bamboo skewers in the grocery store or a wooden chopstick when you eat oriental, just make sure it is not varnished. Insert it in the soil and just leave it there. When you think the plant may be dry pull it out and check. If the stick is dry it is time to water. If it is not wait a couple days and check again. When you water it give it enough water that all the soil in the pot gets wet and some water goes into the drain tray under the pot. Then an hour later empty the drain tray and the plant will stay healthy. It has to be in a pot with a drain hole and a drain tray under it. As the days lengthen it would be better to keep the light on for 14 hours a day. This it a plant that loves the sun. It can even go outside in full sun for the summer months. If you have more questions write again. Good luck.

Darlene