Question
Hi,

My Ponytail Palm has brown tips. It is in a 6" pot, sits in good light and doesn't get watered too much. Can you help? Lisa

Answer
Hi Lisa,

If anything at all is less than perfect in a Ponytail's environment, you will get some brown tipping on the lower leaves. So, you should always expect at least some tipping of older leaves. In addition, as healthy new growth is added on top, a comparable number of leaves will gradually fade at the bottom. As long as the new growth coming in is healthy, then there is no particular cause for concern.

There are some factors that will cause more tipping than expected. These include using hard water, over-fertilizing, and letting the soil get too dry. If your tap water is on the hard side, then use filtered or distilled water. If you fertilize, use it at half-strength monthly. Although it is better to underwater than overwater a ponytail, if the soil gets completely dried out, you will lose more of the older leaves. On the other hand, if you overwater, the roots will rot and NEW growth will be discolored when it comes in. Overwatering is often fatal.

Keep it potbound and in good light.

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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