Question
QUESTION: Hello Kathy,

I need your help.

I received bare rooted Ylang Ylang plant week ago. It came in peat moss, without any leaves, and with wilted and some dark brown branches, but green, thick stem. Plant is about 10 inches tall. Roots seem fine, white and strong. I cut off all dark branches that seemed to be dead and I placed plastic bag with holes over it to conserve humidity and moist (as per seller's advice). I also watered the plant and mist it frequently. Plant is in container kept indoors in Chicago, IL.

Unfortunately, day or two after its arrival plant started to turn dark brown, starting with branches and going to the stem. Now most of the stem is dark brown and soft to touch and it seems kinda pruny. This darkening is very rapid (about 3-4cm per day). I'm pretty sure it's dying and have no clue what to do with it.

Any advice is very appreciated.

Thank you so much!
Elma

ANSWER: Hi ELMA,  Usually brown is a sign of too much water.  I would take the cover off it and if it is not too cold yet set it out side in some bright light not hot sun so it can dry out some.  I grow them here at the nursery and they take very little water.  Also if you have a dish under it and water is in it that is also drowning it.  kathy

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Kathy,

Thank you very much for your response. I was getting really desperate. Yes, there was too much humidity around the plant. I took cover off, and will leave it next to an open window tomorrow. It should be around 70 tomorrow in Chicago. Ii have follow up question; what should I do about dark branches and part of the stem that has already turned dark?  

Thank you once again,

elma

Answer
Hi elma,  The Ylang Ylang can stay outside to the low 40's without being hurt, even to just above freezing.  I am in Florida so the temp here right now is 90, 70 sound mighty fine to me.  You can cut if off or leave it on.  It will just dry up to the good part.  I am just trying to get you plant to dry out some.  If you can get super thrive or s mild rooting harmone to add to the soil to boost the root growth, all you need is one bud on the branch to take hold to save the plant. Have patience it could take awhile as the weather is getting colder and your plant sick.  I have saved many plants with Atomic Grow which is organic.  kathy