What Do I Do With My Yucca When Overwatered?

Symptoms of Overwatering

• An overwatered yucca can suffer from wilting, droopy leaves as water displaces oxygen in the potting soil. Plant roots require oxygen in order to function properly. Root rot is another common problem caused by overwatering. Waterlogged roots become soft and mushy and are no longer able to provide water to the above-ground parts of the plant. A yucca in soggy soil may also exhibit black, necrotic lesions on its leaves.

Proper Irrigation

• If you begin to see the symptoms of overwatering in your yucca, immediately stop watering it. Let the soil dry out completely, but don't let it get so dry the potting medium begins to separate from the pot. If symptoms improve, begin a proper watering schedule. Water thoroughly and empty the drainage dish about five minutes after you water. Then, don't water again until the top 3 inches of soil are dry.

Root Rot

• If symptoms don't improve when you let the plant dry out and begin a new watering schedule, your yucca may have root rot. Carefully take the plant out of its container and look at the roots. If all or most of the roots are brown and mushy, it is best to discard the plant. You won't be able to save it. If only a few roots have brown, mushy spots then you can trim them out and may be able to save the plant. Cut above the infected portion and leave as much healthy root as possible.

Repotting

• Repotting a yucca with root rot will help improve its chances of survival. If your old container has adequate drainage, you can reuse it, but you'll need to clean it out. Wash it with a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water and rinse thoroughly. Use new potting soil. Reusing old potting soil can re-introduce pathogens that cause root rot. The University of Florida recommends using a potting medium of 3 parts peat to 1 part sand. Once your yucca is repotted, water only when the top 3 inches of the potting medium are dry.