Corn Plant Cane Rot: Remove Dead Canes, Correct Care

Corn Plant Cane Rot: Remove Dead Canes, Correct Care

A reader’s 6-month-old corn plant has three stalks: one great, one troubled, one dead (bark papery, stem brown/mushy, cane gray/black inside). No mites seen.

Dead Cane Removal

1. Twist dead cane until it spins freely in soil.
2. Pull straight up and out.
3. Press surrounding soil into the gap. No need to add soil.

Core Care (Prevents Future Rot)

• Keep tightly potted—never repot.
• Bright indirect light (north/east window).
• Water only when top quarter of soil feels dry.
• No fertilizer, no misting.

For a corn plant care guide, email wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com.