QuestionI am wondering if you can help me with a large roebellini palm. I've had it
about three months and it was repotted into another decorative pot with
drainage holes at that time. It is about 3-4 feet high, with 4-5 trunks. It is in
a 22" pot with drainage holes. I water it about every 2 weeks or when the soil
feels dry. Some of the fronds are getting dry and brittle. I'm wondering if it
is receiving too much light or possibly has an insect problem. It is next to a
large floor to ceiling window which faces NW. Could the afternoon sun be too
strong? I have another palm- same type and size in the same conditions but
it seems to be doing better than this one. If the sun is too bright, is there
another plant that could handle the direct afternoon sun?
AnswerHi Karan,
The light from a north west window should not be a problem at all for your Roebellini.
The problem may be watering or spider mites or both.
When properly potted and in good light, Roebellinis usually require more frequent watering than every other week. It is possible that the pot is too large (you didn't indicate the previous pot size, so I cannot be sure) so the extra soil is keeping the roots moist for too long (2 weeks) and the roots may be rotting.
On the other hand, it is possible that it is properly potted, but you are allowing it to get too dry over the course of two weeks. Either way, the symptoms would be the same.
Roebellinis are spider mite magnets. Look for fine webs on the fronds. Mist the plant lightly to make the webs more visible. If you see webs and are unsure how to treat spider mites, let me know.
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]
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.
