Question
Hello,

I recently got a Nolina recurvata "ponytail palm" and I'm having trouble with my lighting.  I have to keep my little plant (the trunk is less than a foot tall) in my room so it doesn't get eaten by my roommate's plant-killing-cat, but I only have one small window.  I'm happy to use some sort of plant light, but I have no idea what wattage and for what duration of time, not to mention if the plant has specific UVA or UVB requirements.  That being said, would reptile lights be acceptable? I have plenty of those...

I just want to keep my little plant as happy as possible!!
Thanks!!

Answer
Chelsea,

OK, You want more details, because your plant is a desert plant and sun lover it needs as much light as possible. I am a master gardener and not a botanist or scientist but I have raised several of these plants. I do not know the specific UVA or UVB requirements but your reptile lights on for 14 hours a day will work well. Good luck.

Darlene

Reptile lights would work just fine and they should be on a timer on for at least 14 hours a day set up 6 to 12 inches above the plant. This is a desert plant, be sure not to overwater it. Let it dry out totally between waterings. Do not allow it to sit with water in the drain tray, empty the drain tray an hour after watering the plant. Good luck.

Darlene