Question
I bought a large potted spike plant this summer, brought it inside for fall/winter and it is turning brown,spike leaves are falling off, it's stalk towards the top of the plant is starting to get "mushy" and it has an off odor.  It's very tall, about 7 ft. I feel bad, loved the plant, not sure what to do...  :(

Answer
Hi Susan, Place the plant in front of a window, preferably a southern window to give it as much light as possible. Cut the cane back to where it is green and firm.  It will re-sprout.  I would expect it drop lower leaves when you move it in from outside.  With the lower light conditions, it cannot support all of the foliage, so it sheds the oldest, lower leaves. Mushy, however, is never good. Water it sparingly and never let water stand in the saucer. Jim