Question
I have a 11 ft yucca that I have had for 7 years.  She has 4 "trunks" and is in a 14" pot.  I am moving this week and want to transfer to a near address with ease.  The large height is not a problem for her new home, but is for the transfer.....even getting out of my foyer now.  The weight is also a problem.  Also, upon attempt of move, I have found that roots are protruding from the base of the pot which is 22" deep.  This plant is so large and beautiful and I want to do what is best.  Can I cut the large one for replant?  How big is this sucker going to grow?  should i wrap?  I wish i thought to ask months ago, but i am moving in days and need any help you can suggest.

Answer
Hi Lisa,

Yuccas do grow ever taller and eventually they need to be pruned back. Any stem can be pruned back to any height and then new growth will gradually emerge from a point just below where you make the pruning cut and start to grow upward from there. The pruned off sections can be rooted in damp soil or even in the base of the existing pot.

Roots coming out of the drainage holes is not a reason to repot. Your Yucca is healthy and the pot is plenty big enough. You can simply cut off the roots where they emerge from the hole. Do NOT repot your plant!

Moving your Yucca raises many other issues. Yes, it would be best if it were wrapped. If this is a long distance move in the back of a van, then high temps inside the van can be a killer at this time of year. If the plant is without light for more than 3 or 4 days that can also be a problem. Finally, mishandling by truckers can dislodge the plant and break the stems.

If you can send me a photo of the Yucca to my address below and details about the move, I can provide better assistance to you.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]