Health & Soil Of Ponytail Palm / Elephant’s Foot Tree

Question

I had asked the question about the glued on rocks that came with my 2 ponytail palms. I am working on freeing them and have had some questions come up. 1. This particular one I’ve attached pictures of is leaning crooked. Do I plant it this way or try to straighten it by angling the bottom when I repot it? 2. There’s an indent on the side of this same plant. I’ve attached close up pictures of it. Is it ok or is there anything to be concerned about? 3. I have on hand cactus and succulent mix potting soil, perlite, vermiculture, and regular potting soil. Is the succulent mix alone good (it’s Miracle Grow), or should I make a mix, or buy something else entirely? Thank you! I am determined to give these little guys a healthy happy home to grow in! 🙂

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Answer 1

I see previous signs of overwatering, but it seems that you are taking the necessary steps to correct this, already.

The potting mix and cactus mix will be perfect, together. You may need to play with the ratio before hand to get the texture just right. Once you feel that it is not too light, or not too heavy you can plant.

You should plant it, exactly, to the same level that it was, but if you would like to straighten it up a bit, then you can do so before covering the rest of the way with soil.

Here is an article that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/ponytail-palm/how-to-move-ponytail-palms.htm