Question
QUESTION: I recently bought a love palm for indoor but now the leaves are turning a pale green.  It is in a terra cotta pot with good drainage and soil is moist. It is in a well lit area but there is a bit of wind coming from the open window. It is winter here in southern Africa.  I have now put it outside in a shaded area but would like it back inside.  Please help!

ANSWER: Susi,

Take it back inside. Pale leaves indicate it's suffering from iron deficiency. You can revive it quickly with a foliar fertilizer spray that includes iron. If you can't find a foliar fertilizer spray that includes iron then look for an chelated iron fertilizer and apply it immediately according to the package directions for the size of the pot it is in. The air from the open window is not a problem. It does need good light and to be kept lightly moist but not wet. If you have more questions feel free to write again. Good luck.

Darlene


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QUESTION: Darlene
In your esteemed opinion, wood chips in plant beds (outside) or in pot plants (inside),do they foster plant mites or not.  
There is divided opinion here from nurseries or gardeners.  I would like to put wood chips down but am a bit fearful if they foster plant mites. What should I do?

Answer
Susi,

I would do it outside but not inside. Outside I do not think they foster insects. They do conserve moisture around the plants and keep the weeds down around your plants if you have a nice thick layer of mulch. Outdoors if you do see signs of insects they are easily treated.

Indoors is a different matter. Keeping mulch off the soil will allow you to better see and feel whether it needs watered or not. You will also be able to see if it gets insects easier. It does not attract insects but it does harbor them. I hope that solves your dilemma. Good luck.

Darlene