I've had an African Milk Tree since around 1983. When I moved back to Texas in 2001 it was around 6 foot tall. Then one winter, around 2004, it was damaged. By 2009, it was back to around 2-3 foot tall. African Milk Tree ( photo / image / picture from cherylad's Garden ) This past winter, really took a toll on it. The only thing that was left was one little "leaf". I felt so bad for not taking better care of it. But now... there's hope! Check out the new growth! (That white thing is a cap off a water bottle!) African Milk Tree - new growth ( photo / image / picture from cherylad's Garden ) I promised it that it would NEVER spend winter outside again... no matter how big it got!
That is one plant that was not ready to call it quits. Hope it keeps on growing for you. Can you imagine how tall it would be this year if the winters had been warmer?
You must have been so excited to see that new shoot appear Cheryl. I hope it keeps growing healthily for you as it's a lovely looking plant and a survivor. :-D
Four months later... and I just have to share how well this plant is doing. (And yes... that's a regular water bottle next to it.) african milktree ( photo / image / picture from cherylad's Garden )
That's a very healthy looking plant and growing quickly. It forgave you for forgetting to bring it in last winter, now don't forget again....that is if we ever have another winter like last year.
I will keep my promise to it... no matter what... it's coming indoors for the winter. I'm not taking any more chances of losing it. Funny how you can get so attached to a plant!
This thread made me happy, I love to see struggling plants spring back to health. Thanks for the update Chery.
Soooo glad your plant is growing well and thriving. It's certainly grown over the last four months. Congratulations. :-D
It never looked this healthy even when it was "new"! Maybe letting a plant freeze nearly to death is actually good for it? :-D :-D
Good for you. As for getting attached, well, I was really sad for quite some time when my inherited cactus suddenly got sick and died. Nothing I did could save it and there were no babies to resque either.
Well done, Cheryl! That is a very healthy-looking plant that seems to be growing well and looks very happy with your care. Gosh, doesn't that make you feel proud?
Resilience!!! That's one of my favorite reasons to love the garden. There's always something new, and something hopeful.
