Question
My plant came in a small saucer like container and small pepple rock that seems to be glued.  I see no dirt or sand in the container.  It was purchased 4 yrs ago and has grown quite tall and is thriving in my south facing window. I think it needs to be transplanted into a larger container.  But I'm clueless on how to do this with the pebbles being glued together.  Should I cut the container away?  And what size of containers should I replant it in?  And what type of soil mixture should I use?  It has a small baby shoot growing off the base of the bulb as well.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated, I live on the border of Nebraska and Kansas, so I don't think I could re-plant this outside.  I will kindly await your reply.  Thanks ever so much!  With Warm Regards, Alyssa

Answer
Hi Alyssa, Pony Tail Palms are tropical by nature and grow in soil in their natural habitat, however, many plants are treated like bonsai's and grown in weird situations (like your little fella..); if it does indeed have a root attempting to find something beside the saucer its in, then by all means, cut away the container and place the root/ bulb section in a small pot with a light potting mixture, don't disturb the glued section though, the roots will eventually expand out on their own and that glued section will disappear. So, to recap, you want to move it into a proper container with proper mixture, but do so with as little disturbance to the root section as possible. Pony Tails do not need much water, that bulbular bottom acts as a reservoir and stores the necessary irrigation, once a week with a watering is sufficient, and the palm will let you know if you are giving it too much by yellowing. Once it shows new growth in its new environment, then you can give it a Miracle-Grow feeding at half strength once a month. Let me know how you make out and feel free to ask for any clarification or additional information if needed....:)..Nick