Question
I have a 4ft high Pony Tail in a pot and recentlt had some painters in doin some painting on a patio and  to 6 weeks after they finished the pony tail started to bend and die back from the crown now all the top of the plant has died back to just a few fonds and a bald top will it re shoot? do i need to cut it back to help this happen    cheers Paul

Answer
Hi Paul,

Do you think there is a connection to the painters and the deterioration of your ponytail? Did the painters do something to it? Was it in the dark during the painting? Please elaborate.

If not, then its deterioration is likely due to a problem with the roots. Ponytails do not tolerate constantly damp soil so they often rot out unless they are allowed to get quite dry in between waterings.

If the roots have rotted, then cutting it back will not help. In fact, there is little you can do once the roots have rotted out.

Try gently unpotting the plant and inspecting the roots. You should see a lot of firm white roots attached to the bottom of the bulb. If you don't, then all may be lost.

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 web site at www.HorticulturalHelp.com

If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.