Question
bananapalm1
My indoor banana palm sprouts every new leaf with brown edges even before they open. I water it about every 1-2 weeks, and it is close to a window, without direct sunlight. I had to cut out the middle section because it appeared to have mildew inside and the stems were rotting. I don't think I am over-watering it. Could it be disease or bugs? It was like this when I got it about 8 months ago but I thought it was just neglected and dried out, and that I could nurse it back to health. Thanks!
AnswerDiana,
If the soil is moist and the pot is heavy for it's size when you water it you are overwatering it. It is also not getting enough light. You should move it so it is next to a south facing window with the window covering open from dawn to dusk. You did not say how large the pot is? it should not be in a pot larger than 12 inches diameter and should allowed to dry out before you water it again.
Insert a bamboo shish kabob skewer into the soil all the way to the bottomm of the pot and cut it off just above the top of the soil. About 5 days after you watered the plant pull the skewer out and see if it is dry or moist. It it is dry down to the bottom 1-2 inches it is time to water the plant. If it is still moist higher than 2 inches wait 2 days and check again. Do not water until the plant is nearly dry. That will guarantee you are not overwatering.
If you have more questions feel free to write again. Good luck.
Darlene
