Question
To a recent question about a ponytail palm your  answer partly read, "I am dismayed that an increasing number of retailers are selling plants that look beautiful, but are set up to fail as living plants. Those glued on pebbles are an example of that" and recommended the pebbles be removed.  Can you please explain the necessity of removing the pebbles?  Thanks, Frieda

Answer
Hi Frieda,

I am glad you asked for clarification, as I should have spelled it out more clearly.

The glued on pebbles that are used for decorative purposes make it very difficult for water to penetrate when you are watering. More importantly, the pebbles make it impossible to push your finger down into the soil to determine how dry the soil is. That means you end up guessing as to when to water.

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]

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