Q.Why it is dying?
I have had a ponytail plant on my patio for 6 yrs. and every year it got bigger and better . this year for some reason the leaves did not come back and now it is dying from the top. The top is falling over and is soft and squeecy! do you know what might have happened ?
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Many cultivars of the Ponytail Palm will survive down to zone 9, which is what your zone is.
With this being said, sometimes just slightly below normal temperatures can send them to death. Coupled with heavy rainfall or overwatering will ensure it.
It does sound like a fungal or bacterial infection, though.
What I would suggest is to treat it with a fungicide and make sure to let it dry out thoroughly in between waterings, at least down to 2 or 3 inches.
These articles will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/ponytail-palm/ponytail-palm-care.htm
