Question

Phormium   QUESTION: Hello Donna,
I planted a couple phormiums into a planter at the end of January, and by March 1st, one of my poor plants looks quite wilted in one section and I was wondering what the cause might be. I have attached a picture so you can see the drooping, especially compared to the other phormium next to it. Do you think planter is overcrowded? Or perhaps the phormium has a disease? I have watered the plants on four occasions ( watering deeply) based on our weather ( southern Ca).  We have had some rainy days along with mid to upper 80's since planted. They are in full sun,  facing south.  Any help,you can provide is greatly appreciated and thank you so much for your time and expertise.

ANSWER: Hello Dana,

I am so sorry you have having trouble with your phormiums. They are such lovely plants!

One thing that does jump out at me from your very complete explanation and helpful picture (thank you!) is that you have had temperatures in the 80's. Phormiums prefer cool temperatures in the winter, and I think that mid to high 80's are too much for them.

If they are outside, you might want to bring them in, since your home is undoubtedly cooler than outside. Do keep them in light, but cool them down. I do not think that, at this size, they are too crowded in the pot. I think that they are simply getting too much winter heat, since they are in full sun, facing south, and it is quite warm there. I notice that the larger one is coping better, but that may simply be a function of it's size.

Does this make sense? Please feel free to write again.

Regards,

Donna



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Donna,
Thank you so much for your ultra speedy reply! I can't bring the planter indoors because it is extremely heavy...but I wasn't very clear regarding the temperatures we have experienced since planting. Majority of the days have been in the 60's, but last week we had three days or so with temperatures in 80's - do you think the change in temp shocked the smaller plant? Can I trim the drooping blades or will that make things worse? If I can trim, what is best way (as close to base of plant as possible)?
Thank you so very much for your help - I can't tell you how grateful I am!
I hope you have a fantastic day!

Answer
Hi Dana,

I am happy to try to help. I have plants that struggle and I know that speedy help can make the difference.

Yes, the smaller plant may have had more of a struggle with the three days of sudden heat.

Even drooping blades may provide nutrition to your baby plant. It needs that chlorophyll! I would leave it for the time being. If it dies, of course, snip it off, but only the tissue that is dead. The living tissue may still be able to make food.

If you get another very hot spell I would try to provide your plant with some artificial shade (an angled umbrella?) It will make it in the long term. Just make sure you don't start overwatering it, and heaven forbid don't fertilize it for a while, and I think that it will surprise you.

Again, please feel free to follow up, and have a lovely day.

Regards,

Donna