Question
QUESTION: My majesty palm and dracena magenta (sp) are both in great distress. I don't know how to identify the problem. They have brown tips and spots as well as droopy leaves on the dracena. I assume that I don't water enough, but I worry about spider mites... although I don't know how to assess if that is one of the problems. I usually dump a large 32 ounce glass of warm water once every 10 days. I think the lighting is correct. Any suggestions... I've been keeping them barely alive for years now. I would like them to thrive.
And with any suggestions, please be specific- I'm very dense when it comes to houseplants/gardening. I want to be better, but have a brown thumb.
thanks

ANSWER: Both like pretty much the same environment, filtered light and humid conditions; the soil needs to be kept from completely drying out, and that means infrequent watering , depending on ambient temps. Keeping the fronds misted will deter spider mites  and greatly increase the plants vitality. Fertilize once a month with a soluble (miracle grow or peters..) at half strength and spray the same mixture on the leaves at the same time. That about covers it Drue, follow these instructions and they should come back for you. It may be wise to repot them at this point, with new soil, to give them a good start. Nick  

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QUESTION: Could you be more specific about the watering regimen as I think that is my main problem. Am I giving enough water at each interval, or should I saturate and then let the top layer dry out. I had been afraid of root rot, so I think I portioned the water to 32 ounces, but now I'm not sure if I am watering to a sufficient depth. They are in 12-14 inch pots/

Answer
First I would recommend you change out the soil to a quality potting mix, many cheaper mixes harden after awhile , preventing water from reaching the entire root system; after that, water it well and then when the soil is dry about 2 inches down, water again, making certain that the pot has about 2 inches of drainage medium lining the bottom, ( pebbles, gravel etc.).  By changing out the soil, you will get an opportunity to check the roots, and make certain they are healthy and also removing any possible insect eggs.