I wouldn't worry about the lower dead leaves. It's natural. Just remove them so if they're diseased they won't spread to other parts of the plant.

I almost looks like there are buds on it near the main stem. Maybe it's just the pic though.
Joefarmer Reviewed by Joefarmer on . Canadian Outdoor Grow 2009 hi everyone ~ this is my second amateur attempt @ growing a plant as i failed miserably last year. :( i transplanted this seedling into a bigger pot, using regular premium potting mix. i'm hoping that i can get some input on what you all think of my plant (i.e. does it look healthy? is it worth it to even try with this plant? etc.) : http://img196.imageshack.us/img196/5289/img48152.jpg Rating: 5