Unknown plant - - Knowledgebase Question

Oklahoma, OK
Avatar for Kngstongrl
Question by Kngstongrl
March 6, 1999
I resurrected a plant my friend at work had thrown away. I don't know what kind it is. It was root-bound as well. It has just long, green leaves or "fronds." I was just going to put it in a bigger pot with some potting soil. Would this be okay? Any ideas what it is? It does grow other leaves or fronds from the other leaves as well. I am "plant-challenged."


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Answer from NGA
March 6, 1999
Without knowing the plant's identity, it's difficult to make suggestions about its care, but you can probably save the plant by repotting it. Remove it from the old pot and cut through the roots, removing the largest ones that are circled around. Just hold the plant upside down, make a big X, cutting about 1/3 deep through the soil and roots. Remove any that are completely severed by the process. Fluff the rest (or bend them back like butterfly wings) to remove some of the old potting soil. Then repot in new potting soil, making sure the roots are not compacted or stuffed back into the old shape. You should be able to use the original pot because you've removed some of the old roots. Try to keep the plant out of direct sunshine and drafts, keep the soil moist but not soggy wet, and wait to see if new shoots or leaves develop in 3-4 weeks. If so, you were successful in rescuing the plant. If not, toss it out and purchase a new healthy plant. In order to know what light exposure, water and fertilizer requirements the plant has, you should try to identify it. If nothing else, look at garden center plants to see if you can find one that's similar. Good luck with your plant!

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