Dracaena care guide
Dracaena
Pets and children
Considered toxic
Saponins in the leaves and cane can cause vomiting, loss of appetite, drooling, and lethargy in dogs and cats; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Dracaena
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 7 days
- For the tree-like foliage dracaenas in general: as a guide, water thoroughly two to three days after the topsoil dries.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 10 days
- The soil dries more slowly as it cools; as a guide, wait four to five days after it dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 14 days
- Keep it on the dry side, watering sparingly about a week after the soil dries through.
Light and placement for Dracaena
Generally bright indoor light through a sheer curtain; many tolerate shade, but variegated and red-leaved kinds fade and narrow-leaved kinds grow spindly in dim spots, and midsummer sun scorches them all.
Overwintering Dracaena
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
It varies by species, but generally they take about 5°C if kept dry and hold their leaves better above 10°C; as a guide, bring them in when nights fall below 10°C and move them back from the window at night.
Fertilizing and repotting Dracaena
Fertilizer
From May to September, slow-release fertilizer every two months or diluted liquid feed about once or twice a month; give less to slow growers and plants in shade, and none in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Dracaena
- Overwatering or water left in the saucer rots the roots and softens the cane.
- Winter cold or a chilly windowsill makes the leaves droop and drop from the bottom.
- In dry indoor air the leaf tips brown and spider mites appear.
Tips for growing Dracaena
- Leaf width, shade tolerance, and cold tolerance differ by kind, so check the guide for your variety if you know its name.
- Cut back an overgrown cane in spring or early summer and new shoots sprout below the cut.
- Dust collects on the leaves, so mist and wipe them now and then.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
