My Donkey's Tail Plant Is Rotting

Watering Needs

• Watering a Donkey’s tail correctly is vitally important to guarding against rot. This plant does not do well if its root system is exposed to constant moisture, particularly when the plant is not blooming. Use a moisture meter to test the water content in the soil. A moisture meter is equipped with one or two metal rods that are pushed into the soil. Water the plant only when the soil is almost completely dry, then water the plant thoroughly. Note that the plant may require frequent watering when it blooms in the spring, and smaller plants will likely require more frequent watering than larger, mature plants.

Fast-draining Soil

• Proper soil composition is an important but too often overlooked consideration when guarding against rot. As with most other succulents, the Donkey’s tail requires fast-draining soil so the roots are not sitting in water for long periods. Commercial potting mix is available specifically to accommodate the needs of cacti and succulents. Do not substitute traditional flower soil for cacti and succulent soil, as traditional soil is designed to retain water.

Nutrients

• A healthy plant is more likely to withstand rot than one with an inadequate source of nutrients. The Donkey’s tail can thrive if provided with nutrients regularly. Succulent fertilizer is often available as a liquid concentrate that is mixed with water. Unless the manufacturer provides otherwise, add the proper amount of fertilizer for each watering. This species prefers a fertilizer consisting of 15 percent nitrogen, 15 percent potassium, 30 percent phosphorus and the remaining 40 percent of all the trace mineral elements.

Temperature and Exposure

• Although cacti and succulents are perhaps most commonly associated with extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, this particular species thrives in shaded areas and does not do well in temperatures that fall below 45 degrees. Move the plant indoors in colder temperatures. One of the reasons this plant is so susceptible to rot is that it thrives in shade. Out of direct sunlight, it takes longer for this species to use its water supply and for excess water to evaporate.