First off, I’m a newbie to houseplants, gardening, etc. I’ve kept succulents for over the past year and just last month decided to branch out to houseplants. Other than the issue I’m having with this current plant, I’m loving having and caring for my plants. So my problem Plant… I’ve had this Dracaena Compacta for about two weeks. Ordered it from House Plants Shop. The plant itself looked gorgeous and vibrant on the first two days; although, the soil was super dried out and was crumbling off when I lifted it out it’s nursery planter to examine the roots. So I watered it on day one and decided to see what happens with the soil issue. Day three, I noticed the leaves, starting from the center (stem) of the plant, where turning very dark brown. I did the plant diagnosis on this app and it stated it was possible from lime water, so I removed all the damaged leaves and watered it with distilled water trying to flush out the soil. Although, the problem seemed to slow, it still persisted. So after a week, I was concerned that maybe it was root rot because it was starting from the stem of the plant. So, I decided to check the roots again and repot in better soil. The roots looked healthy and light in color, so I didn’t think it could be root rot. As a precaution, I decided to spray the roots with a diluted mixture of peroxide and water that I read about online. Again, seeming to slow the issue but still persisting. This morning, I noticed more brown on the stem and on the leaves, so I pulled the damaged leaves and decided to do the diagnosis again. This time the diagnosis was overwatering. It was watered 3 days ago, and the soil is still moist. The app suggested to inspect the roots, remove any damaged, let the root ball sit of a paper towel or towel to dry out, and then repot in new potting soil with better drainage. I haven’t done any of that yet. Right now, I have it outside trying to help dry up some of the soil while I do more research. Because the symptoms have been the same for the last two weeks, I just don’t know which direction to go in order to save this plant. I will check the roots again, but I am worried I’m handling the plant too much. Also, I was wondering if I should attempt pruning down the stem to remove all the damage. I think that still being attached to the plant may be why the problem is persisting, but I’m worried I’ll remove too much of the stem and ultimately end up killing it anyway. Also, I only water it with distilled water. Any help would be greatly appreciated!! P.s I apologize about writing a book lol I wanted to include as much info as possible in hopes of getting as much help as possible.
