Viewing post #751018 by drdawg

You are viewing a single post made by drdawg in the thread called Dying Plant.
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Dec 18, 2014 11:06 AM CST
Name: Ken Ramsey
Vero Beach, FL (Zone 10a)
Bromeliad Vegetable Grower Region: United States of America Tropicals Plumerias Orchids
Region: Mississippi Master Gardener: Mississippi Hummingbirder Cat Lover Composter Seller of Garden Stuff
Take the plant out of the pot and examine the root-ball/potting soil. Is the soil saturated with water? If the soil is very wet, even "mushy-wet", you have a watering problem. Be sure the soil is extremely well-draining and that the water-saucer does not retain water after you water/fertilize. Always empty that saucer. Is the plant root-bound?

Regardless, it is time to change out your potting soil. IF the plant is root-bound, you'll need a slightly larger pot, perhaps 2-3" wider/deeper. Also, make sure that you water twice between fertilization, so that the salts from the fertilizer won't build up. I like to water my houseplants frequently, but I dilute the fertilizer by 1/2. If the fertilizer rate is 1 tsp. per gallon, I use 1/2 tsp. Fertilize weakly, weekly. I always amend my potting soil (in fact, I custom-make all of mine). Bagged potting soil is OK but I would add a cup of coarse perlite to every 4 qt. and/or add a couple of handfuls of orchid mix to every 4 qt. for better draining.

This plant typically will do fine in reduced-light environments, so I don't think this is a light problem. I also wouldn't think it is a cold/draft problem, since the plant apparently has done well where it is. But do keep in mind that this is a tropical plant and does best when it has good indirect light and mild temperatures, preferably above 50 F.
drdawg (Dr. Kenneth Ramsey)

The reason it's so hard to lose weight when you get up in age is because your body and your fat have become good friends.

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