Sudden Decline of a 40-Year-Old Ti Plant (Cordyline)

A cherished Ti plant, grown from a log since 1971, suddenly lost 50+ leaves in two weeks. Same care routine for 15 years.

Root Cause Analysis

Rigid weekly watering is the likely culprit. Plant needs change over time; calendar watering eventually causes:

• Chronic slight over- or underwatering
• Root death from oxygen deprivation or drought
• Delayed symptom onset until critical threshold

Investigation Needed

• Pot size, drainage holes, soil type
• Exact watering volume and frequency
• Photo of entire plant with pot

Immediate Adjustments

1. Switch to "water by need": check soil moisture, water when top 1–2 inches dry.
2. Ensure thorough watering with drainage.
3. Stop fertilizing until recovery.
4. Provide bright indirect light (south window, no direct sun).

Long-term success doesn't guarantee current needs are met. Roots may have been declining silently.