Got a yucca in mail yesterday from catalog company; it already has a sprout on the stem above the roots. How deep should it be planted? How is it likely to do in winter (teens/low twenties), zone 6, semi-arid 4300' elevation, sandy stony alkiline land?
I don't know if it is a red root yucca or not; the roots look reddish brown.
Assume it shouldn't be planted within ten feet of anything that gets watered regularly on weekly basis--is this correct?
yucca questions
Boy, am not anywhere near your zone. What species of yucca is it? Many yuccas are very hardy (had a few in my yard in New Mexico when I lived there and got down to -20F without a problem). Here in So Cal where most all yuccas do OK, we plant them with the stem above the soil level, sand is great, and water them a few times initially (unless some root damage, then don't water for a few weeks), and once established never ever water again (though watering a little doesn't seem to hurt them... it just doesn't seem to be necessary, either).
Tashak, I hate to disagree wiht Botany Bob, But a little infrequent water is better , faster plant growth, a guarantied Bloom for the year. If you get rain that should be sufficient, if not DO give it a little water. yes,if your soil doesnt have enough sand you may need to add to the soil. Ideal soiL( sorry I am reapeating myself!) 1/3 of each, sand, clay, compost.I see your soil is great just add a little copost, and I would add a little clay too. I live amoung so many Yuccas they are like weeds here. Alkilinity it can handle just great! Good luck.
Michele the Desert Plant Master is correct ; most plants prefer a bit of moisture with the odd exception . Good drainage is the most important item with yucca .