Yucca Plant Misidentified as Palm: Correcting Care

Identification

The 8-foot "palm" is actually a yucca (desert plant), not a palm.

Problems

• Insufficient sun.
• Likely overwatering (moss on soil surface hides moisture level).

Corrective Actions

1. Remove all moss from soil surface.
2. Water every 2–3 weeks, only after soil has been bone dry for several days.
3. After April 1, remove dead brown leaves.
4. Cut top off 14 inches below lowest green leaf.
5. Dip cut base in rooting hormone; plant beside old trunk.
6. Place in sunniest south window.

Result

The cutting roots in a month; the old trunk sprouts multiple new tops. Keep 1–2 shoots for a pair of yuccas resembling palms.