Ponytail Palm Fungal Infection: Dry Out and Fungicide

Diagnosis

Yellow-brown new growth suggests winter overwatering + insufficient sun. Possible fungal infection from stress.

Treatment Plan

1. Dry out completely: let soil stay dry 1 full week between waterings.
2. Maximize daily sun exposure.
3. Apply Physan 20 Fungicide (Amazon, ~$17 shipped) as root drench.

Maintenance

• Trim brown leaf tips—OK to remove.
• Do NOT remove brown leaves still growing at top.
• Think desert plant: dry longer than wet, full sun.
• Native to Mexican desert: full sun, minimal rain.

Second ponytail doing fine with same care? Individual variation happens.