Question
I have a 4' ponytail palm that has become temperamental.  There are two new shoots at the bottom which are about 1 year old.  I moved the plant to a screened patio for the past month and most of the stems have died off.  

There is very little left at the top and the trunk is quite small as it elevates.

Can it be cut down to the new growth or it is hopeless.

Thanks for your response.

Answer
Hi Jo,

I don't have a clear picture of what has happened to your ponytail. If you can email me a photo that might give me some additional insights.

In theory, you can cut back the main stem and you will get new growth at some point below the pruning cut. However, that presumes that the plant and roots are healthy and that is questionable. Thus, we need to get to the cause of its current woes and resolve those issues if your ponytail is to have a future.

In addition to the photo, can you describe in detail the light it had before and the light it now gets? When was it last repotted? How wide is the pot? Describe your watering routine.
   
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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

Visit my website at  www.HorticulturalHelp.com