How to take care of a dragon tree?
Even though your dragon tree can handle periods of neglect, it will thrive when given the appropriate amount of water. Only water the plant when the top 2 inches of soil are dry. 2. Don’t Forget the Fertilizer Even though dragon trees are slow-growers, they produce a lot of leaves. During the growing season, make sure you fertilize regularly. 3.
Do dragon trees need fertilizer?
Dragon trees have a relatively low need for fertilizer and it is not an essential component to having a thriving plant. However, to boost their growth, you can feed them lightly at the beginning of spring with a balanced controlled-release liquid fertilizer. Do not fertilize in the winter. Is Dragon Tree Toxic?
Can you plant a dragon tree in a pot?
Additionally, take care not to place your dragon tree in a spot that receives direct rays of sunlight—its foliage can burn easily. 2 When growing dragon tree as a potted plant, use a loose, well-drained potting mix—loamy soil amended with peat moss is ideal. Make sure the container you choose has room for the plant's extensive root system.
How do you fertilize Mad Madagascar dragon trees?
Madagascar dragon trees don’t require fertilizer to thrive, but you may notice faster growth and more vibrant leaves with regular feedings. You can give your dragon tree an all-purpose houseplant fertilizer up to once per month during spring and summer. Since growth naturally slows in the winter, they don’t need feedings then.
What can I feed my Dragon Tree plant?
Feed once a month in the spring and summer with a water-soluble fertilizer that can be diluted to 50% strength. No fertilizer is necessary during the autumn and winter. Dragon Tree is susceptible to mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and thrips.
What kind of fertilizer does a Dragon Tree need?
Dracaenas should be fertilized with a water-soluble commercial houseplant fertilizer. Look for a fertilizer with a nitrogen-phosphorous-potassium ratio of 3:1:2 plus traces of zinc, sodium, manganese, copper and iron.
How often should I feed my Dragon Tree?
1-2 times per monthFertilize your Dragon Tree 1-2 times per month in the spring and summer with indoor plant food, or foliar feed year round.
Should I Feed My dragon plant?
Some experts recommend to fertilize these low feeders only once in spring and again in early autumn. Others say to feed once or twice a month during spring and summer. Feed them in March through September, allowing a period of dormancy during winter.
Can you use Miracle Grow on Dracaena?
Tip: We recommend using Miracle-Gro® Indoor Plant Food to give dracaena an instant boost of nutrition. Apply it directly to the soil and water as normal.
What is the best fertilizer for dragon fruit?
NPK ratio – A good fertilizer for your Dragon fruit is an inorganic type 6-6-6 or 8-3-9. a 20-20-20 mix can also be useful at some times. Fertilize the plants once in early spring and again after finishing the flowers with plant water-soluble fertilizers such as 20-20-20.
Why does my dragon tree have brown tips?
The most common cause of browning leaf tips among Dracaena plants is under-watering, or allowing your Dracaena to sit dry for extended periods of time. Water your Dracaena when the top 75% of the soil in the pot is dry. Soil should never be soggy or wet.
What does a healthy dragon tree look like?
This beautiful tree starts out as a thick tuft of spiky leaves. As it grows, the lower leaves naturally fall, leaving a cluster of dramatic, spear-shaped leaves above a bare woody stem. Its narrow, red-edged leaves can grow about 12-16 in (30-40 cm) long. Dracaena care is easy.
How long does a dragon tree live?
These easygoing, rugged houseplants can add dramatic tropical vibes to any space. With spiky green leaves on long stalks, they can resemble miniature palm trees. In the wild, dragon trees can grow up to 70 feet tall and live for hundreds, if not thousands, of years.
How do you care for an indoor dragon tree?
Dracaena benefit from bright, indirect light. If given too much sun, leaves are at risk of scorch. It's a good idea to grow them in a bathroom or kitchen for humidity. Dragon plants prefer underwatering to overwatering, so let the top few centimetres of soil dry out – test with your finger – before watering again.
Why are the leaves falling off my dragon tree?
The most common cause of dracaena Leaves Falling off is overwatering or underwatering. In addition, excess fertilizer application, heat stress, or cold draft can also cause this problem. Disease and pest infestation often trigger losing dracaena leaves. The problem needs to be addressed as early as possible.
Why is my dragon tree dying?
The most likely causes of a Madagascar Dragon Tree dying are overwatering and insufficient lighting. Underwatering, excess light, fertilizer problems, overpotting, low humidity, pests, or disease can also cause problems. Identifying the issue will help you restore your plant to health.
What is the best fertilizer for rubber tree?
Nitrogen is a big one for rubber tree plants, as they like to have their huge, glossy leaves and nitrogen helps with photosynthesis. It also is the main ingredient to stimulate leaf growth. The fertilizer options of organic fertilizers include; a liquid fertilizer, granular fertilizer and slow-release fertilizers.
Are coffee grounds good for Dracaena?
However, it is a great idea to add coffee grounds to the compost mix that will eventually be used to fertilize a Dracaena. In their decomposed form, coffee grounds provide valuable nutrients to Dracaenas and other houseplants.
What kind of soil do Dragon Trees like?
loamy soilSoil. When growing dragon tree as a potted plant, use a loose, well-drained potting mix—loamy soil amended with peat moss is ideal. Make sure the container you choose has room for the plant's extensive root system.
Why are all the leaves falling off my dragon tree?
The most common cause of dracaena Leaves Falling off is overwatering or underwatering. In addition, excess fertilizer application, heat stress, or cold draft can also cause this problem. Disease and pest infestation often trigger losing dracaena leaves. The problem needs to be addressed as early as possible.
No green thumb necessary on how to care for your Dragon Tree. Trust us, this plant is pretty hard to kill
If you love the idea of having a gorgeous and tall plant like a fiddle leaf fig, but you hate the idea of keeping it alive, then Dragon Tree is the perfect plant for you.
Dragon Tree Plant Care Tips
This timeless indoor plant with a striking appearance looks just as cool in any room of your home or even in your office. One thing you should keep in mind on how to care for your Dragon Tree is it should be planted in a loamy, well-draining soil modified with peat moss. You also need to water regularly during the growing season.
What kind of soil should I use for dragon trees?
Plant dragon tree in any well-draining potting soil formulated for houseplants. I like this one by Happy Frog because it contains mycorrhizal fungi and beneficial soil microbes, but any good-quality potting mix will work.
How often should I water a dragon tree?
Dragon tree needs moderate water. For the best results, water only when the top 1-inch of soil becomes dry. I insert my finger into the soil to the first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, I give the plant a thorough watering. You can reduce watering to once a week in the winter months.
What fertilizer should I use for houseplants?
Use a balanced houseplant fertilizer. My favorite is Jack’s All-Purpose Fertilizer, but any all-purpose food will work. Read my review of Jack’s Fertilizer to see why I love it so much. I use it on almost all my houseplants except those that require special nutrients – like cacti and succulents.
Why are my dragon tree leaves wilting?
Wilted Leaves – If the leaves of your dragon tree begin to wilt, you’re probably over-watering. Although tolerant of an unpredictable watering schedule, over-watering is the one thing that can easily kill or damage the plant. Reduce watering to only when the top 1-inch of soil dries out, and ensure your potting soil and pot drain well.
What is the botanical name for a dragon tree?
There are several plants with the common name of “dragon tree,” so make sure you bring the botanical name, Dracaena marginata. But this plant is so striking, you should be able to recognize it on the spot.
Where should I place dragon trees?
You can also place dragon tree on a humidity tray (shallow tray filled with pebbles and water), or place it near a high-quality humidifier. If you’re unsure about humidifiers, you can read my review of my favorite houseplant humidifier (the one I’m using right now) or click here to view it directly on Amazon.
How to clean a sage plant?
The leaves of this plant get dusty easily. Clean the leaves regularly by wiping them with a soft sponge or cloth dipped in warm, soapy water. You can also give the plant a shower once in a while if needed. Just make sure to use warm water.
How to keep dragon tree from growing wild?
Prune your Dragon Tree regularly to keep it from growing wild. A well-maintained tree will grow upright and use up only a small amount of floor space.
What is a dragon tree?
Dragon Trees, affectionately referred to as Rainbow Plants, are slender, with a thin trunk that branches into multiple stalks . These have a tendency to grow wild, so you’ll have to train them to point upwards and keep your tree looking orderly. The bark is usually brown or gray, and the trunk will grow to a few inches in width.
What color are dragon tree leaves?
Leaves come in several color varieties. Red with a green center, green with red/yellow stripes, and red with a yellow center.
How cold should a dragon tree be?
Sudden drops in temperature will cause the leaves to fall off the tree. Dragon Trees do best in an area that is between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit.
How tall does a dragon tree grow?
If you maintain Dragon Tree properly, it will retain a slim profile, using up only minimal floor space, and growing to an impressive 8 feet in height. Their look and size make them ideal indoor plants, commonly featured in offices and homes across the country.
Why is my dragon tree prone to leaf spot disease?
Dragon Trees are also susceptible to several diseases, particularly leaf spot diseases. They occur when the environment gets too warm and wet. To help mitigate this issue, avoid watering your plant from overhead. When you detect the signs of leaf spot disease, excise the infected foliage so that it cannot spread to the rest of the tree.
How to keep a tree from getting too much fluoride?
Use the right soil to avoid excess fluoride. Keep the soil moist, but don’t overwater it (you’ll need less in the winter). Watch the leaves to monitor your tree’s health.
What are the pests that eat dragon trees?
The most common pests that affect dragon trees are sap-sucking insects, like mealybugs and scale.
How long does it take for a dragon tree to grow?
Dragon trees are slow growers. They can take over 10 years to grow 5-6 feet tall. It is normal for the plant to lose older leaves as it produces new growth.
How did dragon trees get their name?
Dragon trees got their name from the story of Hercules slaying the 100-headed dragon.
Why do dragon trees drop leaves?
It is normal for dragon trees to drop older leaves as it produces new growth, so this might not be an issue.
How to remove leaves from a stem?
Use a sterilized set of shears or a serrated knife to remove a portion of stem that has leaves. It is best to cut at a 45° angle.
How to tell if a plant has nutrient deficiency?
The most obvious sign of nutrient deficiency is yellowing leaves. Commonly, the lower (and therefore older) leaves will yellow and die off first, or the tips of the leaves could begin to yellow.
Is it rare for dragon trees to bloom?
Indoors, it is very rare for a dragon tree to bloom and even more rare for it to produce berries.
How tall do dragon trees grow?
In their native Madagascar, dragon trees can reach heights of 20 feet, but houseplants generally grow up to 6 feet when fully grown.
What is a Madagascar dragon tree?
The Madagascar Dragon Tree, or Dracaena marginata, is a wonderful houseplant for those who want beauty with little maintenance. These plants don’t require much to keep them happy and recover fairly easily when neglected. In this article, we’ll give you the lowdown on dragon tree upkeep and teach you how to make them thrive. Read on to learn more on how to care for a Madagascar dragon tree.
Is Madagascar dragon tree easy to grow?
Madagascar dragon trees are easygoing and great for beginners. But, like most other plants, there are a few conditions that they won’t tolerate. Here’s what you’ll need to focus on to care for this plant:
Can you water a dragon tree with distilled water?
If possible, water your dragon tree with distilled water. Like many other Dracaena plants, these plants are not huge fans of the fluoride that is present in most tap water.
Do dragon trees shed leaves?
Keep in mind that it’s normal for dragon trees to shed their dead leaves here and there. To keep the plant looking tidy, you can remove leaves from the tree as soon as they die, or wait to collect them when they fall off.
Do dragon trees like indirect light?
Dragon trees do best in bright, indirect light. Placing the plant in a sun-filled southern window, for example, might lead to burnt, crispy leaves.
Do Madagascar dragon trees need fertilizer?
Madagascar dragon trees don’t require fertilizer to thrive, but you may notice faster growth and more vibrant leaves with regular feedings.
How do I grow a dragon tree in a pot?
When growing dragon tree as a potted plant, use a loose, well-drained potting mix—loamy soil amended with peat moss is ideal. Make sure the container you choose has room for the plant's extensive root system. Some varieties are imported from Hawaii and will arrive with lava rock—if this is the case, remove about one-third of the rock and replace it with potting soil.
What is a dragon tree?
Dracaena marginata, more commonly known as a dragon tree, is an attractive plant with green sword-like, red-edged leaves. Native to Madagascar, the eye-catching spiky tree is known as a great entry plant for household gardeners—it's easy to care for, drought-tolerant, and nearly indestructible. The slow-growing plant can be planted year-round ...
What is the difference between Dracaena marginata and Dracaena draco?
The main difference between Dracaena marginata and Dracaena draco is inside the leaves. Marginata does not have a red resin, but draco does have a red resin (called "dragon's blood") that you will see ooze out if you cut into the leaves.
What is the color of dragon tree leaves?
Dragon Tree Varieties. Although there are several varieties of dragon tree, the most commonly found at plant stores (and used as household plants) include: Dracaena marginata Tricolor: This varietal has dark red margins, green leaves, and an ivory stripe down the leaf center.
How tall does a Dracaena tree grow?
The slow-growing plant can be planted year-round and boasts tiny white flowers in the spring (though it rarely flowers indoors). This small tree will grow to about 20 feet in warm outdoor climates, but it is generally grown as a potted houseplant and kept pruned to 6 feet or less. Botanical Name. Dracaena marginata.
What is the color of Dracaena marginata?
Dracaena marginata 'Tricolor': This varietal has dark red margins, green leaves, and an ivory stripe down the leaf center.
What are the diseases of dragon trees?
Common Pests and Diseases. Although they are fairly disease-resistant, dragon trees are susceptible to scale, mealybugs, and thrips. 2 Mealybugs are easy to identify as they leave small, sticky, cottony deposits on the leaves of the tree. Dragon tree plants are also at risk of acquiring the common plant pest, spider mites.
How to propagate a dragon tree?
How to Propagate Your Dragon Tree Using Stem Cuttings. Use this method after air layering your plant or when pruning back overgrown stems. The leafy top portion of a pruned stem can simply be planted in soil to create a new plant if desired.
What is a dragon tree?
elenaleonova/Getty Images. Dragon tree, also known as dragon plant, is the name for any number of species in the Dracaena genus of plants. These easygoing, rugged houseplants can add dramatic tropical vibes to any space. With spiky green leaves on long stalks, they can resemble miniature palm trees. In the wild, dragon trees can grow up ...
How tall do dragon trees grow?
In the wild, dragon trees can grow up to 70 feet tall and live for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. 1 Tall, elegant houseplant specimens are typically kept pruned at six feet, although there are some dwarf species, such as Dracaena deremensis ‘Janet Craig,’ also known as pineapple dracaena. Some of these species grow as tall as regular ...
How to grow a dragon tree in a spot with less light?
2 If you move your dragon tree from a spot with less light to a spot with more light, you will notice a significant difference in its growth, which will be faster and larger with brighter light.
Why are my dragon tree leaves brown?
If you notice browning tips on your dragon tree’s leaves, your space may be too dry. Create a more humid microclimate by grouping your dragon tree together with other plants which release moisture from their leaves, or move them to a humid, warm place like your bathroom window.
What is a dracaena?
Dracaena fragrans, or Massange’s dracaena, is also known as corn plant, thanks to its broad, shiny green leaves. 4 The ‘Lemon Lime’ cultivar features broad, pointed green leaves with thin forest green and cream stripes running down the middle.
How to grow a new plant from a stem?
Step 1: Identify a point below the stem’s top leaf growth where you’d like the new plant’s roots to grow. Make an upward diagonal cut about one-third of the way through the stem at that point, taking care to make sure that the stem won’t topple over.
What kind of soil do dragon trees like?
Dragon trees prefer loamy, well-draining soil. Make sure to choose a potting mix to suit this soil preference, and loosen it up before planting to ensure that it drains well. You can also mix gravel into the mix to help the soil drain and prevent root rot. Choose your container.
How to plant a dragon tree from a cutting?
Here is an overview of how to plant a dragon tree from cuttings from another tree. Make your cuttings . Cut a piece of a dragon tree stem that is about eight inches in length. Make your cutting in spring or summer when the tree is thriving. Put your cuttings in water.
What is a dragon tree?
Dragon trees are plants with succulent-like spiky leaves that require little care.
How tall do dragon trees grow?
The dragon tree is native to Madagascar, from which it receives the common name, the “Madagascar dragon tree.”. Dragon trees can grow up to 20 feet tall outside in warm climates but often grow to about six feet ...
Do dragon trees need watering?
In the fall and wintertime, dragon trees will require less regular watering, so adjust your watering schedule according ly. Consider pruning your dragon tree. Although dracaena trees do not require much pruning, you can control the height and size of your plant as you see fit.
What is the best way to grow dragon fruit?
2. Organic fertilizer, like manure or compost, is a good nutrient source. Pick up decomposed manure at your local home improvement store, or make your own compost at home. Along with traditional fertilizer, both manure and compost are a great source of nutrients for your dragon fruit. [17]
How long does it take for a dragon fruit to grow?
1. Wait up to 7 years for your plant to produce fruit. Your dragon fruit plant may seem barren, even after months and months of regular TLC. Don’t worry—this is perfectly normal. If grown from a seed, dragon fruit can take up to 7 years to bear delicious fruit.
How to fertilize a plant with granules?
1. Apply traditional fertilizer with granules or an irrigation system. If you only have a few plants, you might have an easier time applying the fertilizer around your plants. Depending on your set-up, you might have an easier time applying the fertilizer through your irrigation system.
How to apply fertilizer to a plant?
Depending on your set-up, you might have an easier time applying the fertilizer through your irrigation system .
Do you need fertilizer to grow dragon fruit?
These plants aren’t hard to care for, but they do require a specific fertilizer regimen. Not to worry—we’ve answered all your frequently asked questions, so you can grow healthy, delicious dragon fruits from the comfort of your home.
Sunlight
Water
- Your Dragon Tree requires less water compared to other indoor plants. A rule of (green) thumb, water only when the topsoil is dry or usually once a week. However, keep them hydrated by misting the leaves regularly. Common Problem:If the leaves of your Dragon Tree has brown tips or the leaves are drooping, then this means you are overwatering the plant. While yellow leaves me…
Humidity & Temperature
- Next on our list on how to care for your Dragon Tree is to check the humidity and temperature of your place. Dragon Tree can survive in an average humidity environment, but it prefers environments with higher humidity. It also prefers temperatures ranging from 70-80°F. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F because it will harm the plant. Common Problem:Brown lea…
Toxicity
- Dragon Tree is toxic to cats and dogs because it contains steroidal saponins, which can cause oral pain and stomach irritation to your pets.
Food
- Another on our list on how to care for your Dragon Tree is to feed them once a month in the spring and summer with a water-soluble fertilizer that can be diluted to 50% strength. Stop giving them fertilizer during autumn and winter. Common Problem:If the leaf tips and margins of your Dragon Tree are dark brown or yellow, then this means you've appl...
Pests & Other Problems
- Dragon Tree is an easy houseplant to care for. However, you should watch out for mealybugs, scale, and especially spider mites. To kill these pests, use an insecticide that contains pyrethrin. Also, do not panic if you notice that the leaves start dying and coming away at the bottom of the plant because this is natural. The Dragon Tree sheds its bottom leaves for new growth. That's a …