Question
I have what I think is a Yucca plant/tree. Almost every leaf is browning on the edges even the newest leaves eventually start to turn brown on the edges.  It is not in the direct sunlight or near the air conditioning or heat.  It is a great looking plant but I am afraid it will die if I can't determine why the leaves are dying.

I have had it for about eight months and I bought it from Sam's Club.  There are no bugs, it continues to grow but the browning concerns me.  What am I doing wrong?

Answer
Hi Kay,

Brown leaf edges and tips on Yuccas are non-specific symptoms that occur when just about anything is out of sync for the plant.

First, make sure it is getting enough light. It must have very bright indirect light all day long and some early or late day direct sun is even better. Right in front of an east window is ideal.

Second, check your water quality. If your tap water is on the hard side, then switch to filtered, distilled, or rainwater.

Third, make sure that you are watering properly. Allow the top quarter of the soil to dry out and then water thoroughly until a little water runs through the drainage holes.

Finally, make sure there are no roots wandering out of the drainage holes.

Trim off the browned edges and tips because they will never get green again. This will also allow you to monitor your efforts to prevent future browning.

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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