Question
HELP! I've had my Moses in the Cradle for a 2 or 3(?) years now, and THOUGHT i'de finally found the perfect place for it in my new house. I last repotted it about a year or so ago (its in a pot approx 5deepx5across).  During these last winter months, it started getting its first "boats".  In the last couple months its put off several new shoots (yay!) BUT! in the last month or so the leaves have started to get brown spots, mostly on the tips and less toward the stalk, followed my the leaves dying! this is happening on the older and newer parts. Also has stopped producing "boats". I have it in a east facing window (did great during the winter ther, but maybe to much sun now?), and water it when its dry to the touch (i use diluted mirc. grow with each watering as directed on the package for all my house plants).

Peace/Serenity

Answer
Hi there,

The east window light should be fine. There are two possible reasons why the leaves are spotting and dying.

First, if your local tap water is on the hard or alkaline side, then switch to filtered, distilled or rainwater.

Second, you may be overwatering and the roots may be rotting. Root rot occurs over a long period of time. After moving your plant into a larger pot, you have to compensate by watering less frequently. (The extra soil holds water for a longer period of time.) I suggest that you allow the top third of the soil to dry out before watering thoroughly.

Finally, I will note that fertilizer is only intended for healthy plants that are growing vigorously. Use only plain water until your plant is fully recovered.

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]

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