Desert rose ?

Question

purchased desert rose a week ago. The soil was super wet. Put it in indirect lighted area of home. Suddenly all the beautiful leaves drooped overnight. I took it back and was told was too much light and looked burned. Moved it to light but less light. 2days later the lower part was soft. I know this means too much water but can also mean dehydrated. Did not water it ever for the week as felt it had too much already. They gave me a new plant and let me keep the one as they would just toss it and I knew it was root rot but wanted to see if I could save it. I took it out of soggy soil and entire bottom and all roots were in great healthy condition. I put it in the cactus soil recommended and took all the soggy soil everywhere. Don’t know if this was wrong to do or not, but I took a clean sewing needle and put tiny holes all over where I could see

water under the skin. I noticed in places it drained out and put in shade to see if that helps the water to dissipate or drain out slowly. Will watch it closely before I bring it back inside. As roots were so healthy still am hoping it will survive. It must be my guess 3-5 years as base was large several branches and about10” tall. I know this is long but just sharing and will keep you posted.

Vimarhonor · Answer

Hello. Here’s a link that could be helpful to help direct you in your care of your desert rose. Also contacting your Cooperative extension would be a local source for guidance for all your gardening needs.

https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/desert-rose.html