Question
Hi Will,

Despite the thousands of questions you receive every month, you might remember me from the winter when I asked you for a plant id (Cordyline, not Aglaomena as I originally thought). Though you advised the plants have different cultural requirements, I decided to companion plant the two directly into a 6"in pot, at the time thinking the Cordyline would adapt to the lower light and moisture of the Aglo or it would be moved outdoors to fare mainly on its own. Well either the Cordyline likes being treated as and Aglo, or it has an identity issue and thinks it is an Aglo as I originally identified it (but it's definitely a Cordyline!)

To date the plants are happy sharing such close quarters. New growth is abundant on both plants, especially with the longer, more intense summer light, and I expect them to need repotting before too long. (Whereas I used to water them about once/week, now they dry out after about 3-4 days - and really hot summer weather hasn't arrived yet. The plants are in low light (about 10 feet from a double patio door partially obstructed by a large maple tree) and receive supplemental lighting in evenings from a small fluorescent desk lamp located a couple inches from the plants.

By now you are probably asking....so what's the problem?! I just want to ensure I am providing enough background information for you to make a proper diagnosis. The last couple of weeks, the Aglo has lost a couple older outer leaves that turned yellow. Normally not a concern - they were older leaves - I noticed today that a couple of the new leaves are coming in much paler than usual and carry a slightly yellowish tinge to them that isn't the norm for this particular plant.

I thought to seek your advice whilst the problem is still in the early stages. My water source (soft, unchlorinated water) or watering habits (let soil dry down 1/4 of the pot between thorough waterings)haven't changed, or has anything in the environment that I can think of.

Can you offer insights why my Algo's new growth is pale and slightly yellow? If it will be helpful, I will email photos of the plants later today.

Thanks for your help,
Morgan
 

By now you are asking, what' the problem??

Answer
Hi Morgan,

I DO remember you, although under a different name - The Companion Queen! Thanks for updating me on your success with your companion effort.

I am not sure just what is causing the leaf yellowing on the Aglo's new growth. Chilling is one possibility, although that is not likely at this time of year unless you live in Canada or Alaska or the southern hemisphere!

Excess light is another possibility. If you have enough for your Cordyline, then it may be too strong for the Aglo. I have observed that Aglos do sometimes develop leaf yellowing when exposed to intense overhead fluorescent light. Try eliminating the fluorescent light and see if there is improvement. Of course, that might cause a problem for your Cordyline, but I am sure you will figure that out.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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