Question
Hi Will, i have had my yucca for a good ten years. It is very healthy and growing weel.Problem= Three major top heavy sections leaning on one side. I dont want to cut any back, but can you suggest any ways of helping him strighten up or at least encourage to grow the other way. I turn him around to face different angles of the light already. Thanx Gyanor.

Answer
Hi Gaynor,

Like many plants, Yuccas stems grow toward the main light source. Once a stem has angled in a particular direction, it will not change. If you change the plant's orientation toward the light, the NEW stem growth will now grow in a different direction, but the original stem will remain as it was. You cannot change what has already been established. That is why it is generally recommended to rotate a plant a quarter turn each week so that all sides of the plant get equal light exposure.

Pruning is one way to correct the lean, but that is not something you care to do. Depending on the plant, it is sometimes possible to use string to pull wayward stems back in the direction that you prefer. I would have to see a photo of your Yucca to determine if that is possible with yours. Another possibility is to reposition the rootball in the pot itself so that the stems are more upright. Again, I would need a photo to see if that is possible.

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]