How to care for: Dracaena (Dragon tree)

The Dracaena is popular as an indoor plant characterized by long and slim leaves with red edges. Dracaena plants can deal with some neglect, making it fairly straightforward and simple to take care of. Due to the tough nature of this plant, the Dracaena, also known as the 'Dragon Tree' is perfect for any beginner.

The best location for Dracaena plants

The Dracaena thrives best with indirect sunlight to partial shade. Place it somewhere where direct sunlight does not hit this indoor plant as this can burn its leaves. If it is placed in a room with less light, it will still survive. When the Dracaena is positioned in a place with a lot of partial shade, the plant will feel fine, but will slow down in growth.

Watering the Dracaena

Before watering the Dracaena check if the soil feels dry. The plant only needs water if the soil is dried out first. Overwatering can cause the plant to grow fungus or make the roots start to rot.

If possible use distilled water or filtered water for the Dracaena. The minerals and salts in unfiltered water or tap water can cause the tips of the leaves to turn brown.

Repotting

Repotting the Dracaena isn't necessary every year. The plant is a slow grower. We recommend repotting the Dracaena every 2 years. Repotting gives the plant new nutrients and more room for root growth. The airier soil is also very good for the water flowing through. The best period to repot is spring.

Plant nutrition

The Dracaena doesn't use a lot of energy. However, the plant likes extra nutrients in the growing season. You can provide these nutrients by plant nutrition. We recommend giving plant nutrition once every month. From spring until autumn. After autumn and in winter it is better not to give extra nutrients. In the winter, plant nutrition can actually be harmful for the Dracaena!

Air-purifying function

The Dracaena plays a role of an air purifier. Dracaena plants can clean the air of chemicals like xylene, formaldehyde, and benzene, which is also one reason people prefer it for their homes.

Is the Dracaena toxic?

The Dracaena leaves are toxic to cats and dogs because they contain toxic alkyds. If chewed by pets, these leaves can cause diarrhea, drooling, mouth irritation, swelling in the face, etc.

Diseases and peculiarities

If the air is too dry, the Dracaena can suffer from spider mites. To prevent spider mites, it is best to use the plant sprayer once a week. Spider mites are an infection of mites on plants. You can recognise the infection by infected leaves and a kind of cobwebs. If you have come across spider mites, it is best to place the plant outside. Wind and moisture from outside will quickly keep the spider mite away.