Question

Leaves  

Branches   Hi Melissa, I have a problem here. A few months ago, I've been given by my relative a pomegranate plant, about 3-4 years old. My relative wasn't any expert in growing plants, other then watering it twice  daily. Recently, one of the trunks was broken off from some itchy hands by the people walking pass. After which I decided to keep it in a safer place( still with good amount of sunlight). But then, the leaves are starting to turn yellow, and the roots "trunks"/ branches have quite alot of white spots on it. I went to ask some of the florist and they told me to get a Debugger(Etofenprox). Is there anyway I can still save this plant that I have? I'm also not an expert in plants. Thank you so much.

Answer
Dear Jian, Whatever you do, please don't spray Etofenprox on this plant.  This chemical kills fleas and that is about it.  You actually have several things wrong with this plant.  I can see from the branches picture that the inside of the pot has a white ring around the inside.  This is caused from excess salt buildup.  You should probably repot this plant in some potting mix (it will say potting mix on the bag).  Then please don't water the plant twice a day.  This can cause root damage.  The only reason to water any plant twice a day is because it is in too small a container and is unable to keep enough water in the pot.  Plants don't need to be kept wet or damp all the time in order to grow.  This will actually cause the roots to suffocate.  Instead, allow the plant to dry out pretty much in between waterings.  The top inch of the soil should be pretty dry before you water.  If you have a saucer under the plant to catch the water runoff, then be sure to empty it between waterings.  Give the plant as much sunlight as possible.  These pomegranates can grow into very pretty bushes, and they like it hot and fairly dry.  I think the browning on your leaves is caused from excess water.  So repot the plant.  If you use the same pot, be sure to scrub off the white salt ring which is very damaging to plants.  Keep the plant a bit more on the dry side and in a very sunny location.  When it perks up, you may want to do a bit of pruning to give it a nice shape, but for now let's just try to keep the plant alive.  I hope this information helps, but be sure to write back if you have more questions.  I have grown many many plants and I hope to be able to help you with all your plant questions.  Good luck to you, Melissa