Question
Have had my plant for about 12 yrs. Both branches growing from the main trunk of the plant are too tall (8ft.)and just about reaches the ceiling of the master bath which has a skylight facing north. Also there is a small area on one side of the trunk near the soil that seems to be rotting.  How can the two branches (they have nodules underneath)be removed and rooted for replanting? Can the trunk be saved as well? I live in the Chicago (IL)area and would like to know if I should attempt something now or wait until spring? Thanks for your help!

Answer
Sherrie,

I am a little southeast of you near Fort Wayne, IN. I highly recommend that you wait until after April 1st when the days are longer then you air layer both branches of the corn plant off and pot them up in a separate pot. Directions for air layering are at the following website:

http://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/extension/ornamentals/airlayer/airlayer.html

In the meantime you save the trunk by letting the plant get very very dry between waterings. It is rotting because it is being somewhat overwatred. Use some bamboo skewers from the grocery store like you make shish kabobs with and insert one in the soil. Do not water the plant until you can pull the skewer out of the soil and it is bone dry. If you do this the roots will begin to heal and regrow. This plant likes to be totally dry for a day or two between waterings. It is killed most frequently by being overwatered. Cut back on the water and you will save your plant. If you have more questions feel free to write again. Good luck.

Darlene      [email protected]