Question
Hi Will,

I have read your advice on another website re sick Pachira. I do have a rotting stem but wanted to know if I should remove all the way down to the root or just below where the stem is staring to rot, would I need to coat the cut area in anything to prevent further infection?

Many thanks, Sarah

Answer
Hi Sarah,

You can remove as much or as little of the dead stem as you like for aesthetic purposes. It will not have any effect on the health of the surviving stems.

Sealing after pruning is something that used to be recommended, but has recently been proved to not be beneficial. Cut stems are better left to heal in the open air rather than risk having a bacterial infection sealed into them. Of course, with a dead stem it really makes no difference.

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

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com

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

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