Watering indoor yukka

[1977Nicky]

I am a serial plant killer and am currently in the process of murdering my indoor yukka. The label says not to water very often but I have no idea what this means - one a week? Once a month? And I don't know how much water to give it? Sone of the leaves are now dropping off but nothing seems to help!?

[Thunderbird+]

Hi Nicky,
I know just what you mean, even the most seasoned of green-fingered gardeners can be guilty ot drowning or starving their plants of water.
I will depend to some extent to the environment they are kept in ie central heating etc.
I think the secret is with Yukka's is to try and make sure the compost is kept moist but not so much that it becomes waterlogged, if water collects in the dish under the pot then tip this away. Watering should be reduced during winter but make sure it does'nt dry out completely.
Hope that helps. Good Luck Tbird+
Ps If you're still unsure, a moisture meter might make a nice Christmas gift from someone ?

[Hawkwalk]

Overwatering is the main killer but also lack of light will be a problem. They come from South America so like good light levels. As Tbird says, dont let them sit in water or waterlogg the soil but it is ok to let them dry out a bit between waterings but not too much. If the compost comes away from the sides of the pot then it is getting too dry. If you can squeeze water out of the compost then it is too wet.