Soft Spot on Ponytail Palm Base: Rot or Just Time to Repot?

Background

15-year-old ponytail palm (PA). Summer on porch. Soft quarter-sized spot on caudex (bulb) above soil, small crack. Otherwise healthy, grew well. Roots showing through pot holes. 10" pot, 2" soil margin.

Ponytail Physiology

Native to dry Mexico. Stores water in caudex. Sandy mix minimizes rot. Bright indirect to full sun (north window OK).

Watering Rules

• Allow soil to dry WELL between waterings.
• If unsure, skip a week.
• Never let water sit in saucer.

Signs

• Underwatering: Dry/brown foliage, shriveled stem, desiccated roots.
• Overwatering: Light new growth, stem rot, root rot.

Assessment

Soft spot suggests possible rot from excess moisture. Repot into sandy, well-draining mix; enforce strict dry-down. Bright light essential.