Dracaena are easy to grow.
While they thrive in bright, indirect light, they even qualify aslow-light houseplants.
The plants in theDracaenagenus contain saponins that are toxic to dogs and cats.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
While the plant tolerates short periods of direct sunlight, long exposures will cause leaf scorch.
Indoors, it also tolerates low-light conditions although it will grow better with more exposure to indirect light.
Outdoors, it needs a location in partial shade or dappled sun.
The Spruce / Cara Cormack
If grown in the landscape in tropical regions, the soil should be rich and well-drained.
In winter, water moderately every two weeks.
Use a room humidifier if the air in your home is particularly dry.
The Spruce / Cara Cormack
Do not fertilize in fall and winter when plant growth slows down.
Use a detachable shower head to spray the plant clean.
Pruning Tip
Looking for the best pruners for your dracaena plants?
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
We tested and identifiedtop-rated pruning shearsin our Lab to verify your plants stay happy and healthy.
Even just a bare section of the stem will often produce a new plant.
Let it develop a good root internet over the course of several weeks.
Change the water regularly.
Once the roots are several inches long, move to a pot of soil.
Replace the top 2 to 3 inches of potting mix yearly with fresh mix to replenish nutrients.
Select a location with partial shade, ideally dappled sun cast by other plantings.
If the plant receives direct sun, morning sun is preferable to the hot and harsh afternoon sun.
Fungal leaf spot disease is sometimes be a problem if the soil is overly moist.
Common Problems With Dracaena
Problems with a dracaena plant often manifest themselves through the leaves.
If the only available location is a south-facing windowsill, use a sheer curtain to filter the light.
Yellowed Leaves
When the leaves of a dracaena turn yellow, the likely culprit is overwatering.
Cut down on the amount of water you give your plant.
If the soil is compacted and drains poorly, repot the plant with fresh potting soil.
However, it’s also normal for older leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
Wilted Leaves
Droopy, wilted leaves arent necessarily a sign that your plant needs water.
Outdoors,dappled sunis ideal.
Also remember that it will need much more water outdoors than indoors, especially in hot summer weather.
You may want to consider propagating.
Mid-Florida Research & Education Center.
Houseplants for Healthier Indoor Air.
