How do I revive my ponytail palm?

Question

The leaves started turning brown and eventually the entire thing turned brown. I water usually every 10 days or so. It started to sap, so I figured that was a good sign but I’m not too sure anymore. I cut all the dead leaves off and was going to cut right down to the stem but when I tried they just pulled off and have left a wet bulb part. What do I do now?

Answer 1

Right before it was given to me it was re-soiled, my mom gave it to me in hopes I could revive it while she was away.

I haven't noticed any bugs but I'll take a closer look. I thought maybe the bulbs under the brown leaves was new growth?

Thanks for your help Shelley

Answer 2

I am wondering if perhaps you have been over-watering your ponytail palm. Did you let the soil dry out significantly between waterings? Touch the soil - is it really damp? If so, I would consider re-potting your palm in fresh dry soil.

I am also wondering about that sap. The presence of sap could indicate a type of scale plant insect which could drain your palm's sap or create honeydew, depending on the type of insect. I have included articles about these critters below so you know what to look for and what to do:

Identifying scale plant insects:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/control-plant-scale.htm

Prescribed care for ponytail palms:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/ponytail-palm/ponytail-palm-care.htm