Question
I have a palm plant which is fifteen years old ( got it when my son was born). I repotted it recently (few months ago) and was a disaster seemed to lose half its roots. Thought it would die but seems to have recovered now. Should I not repot it in the future?

Answer
Hi Ruth,

Unnecessary repotting is the single most common cause of plant problems. The extra soil that is added tends to retain moisture around the roots for too long and causes them to rot.

Research has demonstrated that potted plants do best when the rootball is 80% roots and only 20% soil. Most people never let their plants become that potbound.

Here is a good rule of thumb: If a plant can go at least two days without water following a thorough watering, then it does not need a larger pot.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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

If this information has been helpful, please remember to give me an AllExperts rating and nomination.