Dracaena fragrans, also known as ‘Corn Plant’, is a stunning and relatively rare plant with lush foliage and a tropical look. Native to tropical West Africa, this species of Dracaena grows at low altitudes, in warm, hot climates with plenty of light and moisture. The leaves are beautifully long and broad, with cream-green and yellow stripes giving it its distinctive appearance.
This plant is perfect if you want something attractive and low-maintenance for your living space. It can thrive indoors but prefers to be outside, especially during spring and summer. However, with this said, there are still some things to consider when adapting it to an indoor setting.
Tips for nurturing your Dracaena fragrans
Light
Your Dracaena fragrans should be placed in a bright spot indoors. In the summer, it’s great to move it to a location outside where it can get plenty of direct sunlight. Lack of light can result in dull, thin leaves, so make sure you keep it well-lit.
Temperature
The ideal temperature for your Dracaena fragrans is between 18-29°C (64-84°F). It is best to bring it in if it gets colder than 7°C (44°C) degrees.
Soil Type and Drainage
Dracaena fragrans need well-draining soil that contains some organic matter. Use conventional potting soil and mix in perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Humidity
Dracaena fragrans prefer a humid environment. You can increase the humidity levels by misting the leaves with a spray bottle or placing the pot on a wet pebbled tray.
Watering
The Dracaena fragrans do not require a lot of watering. The soil should be allowed to dry out before watering again, especially in the winter months.
Toxicity
Dracaena fragrans are non-toxic to both pets and humans, so make sure you keep them away from kids and animals.
Fertiliser
Dracaena fragrans do not need regular fertilising; you can use a balanced liquid fertilizer during the spring and summer months.
Troubleshooting Pests, Diseases, and Common Problems
Dracaena fragrans are relatively hardy and resistant to disease, but there are still a few common problems you should look out for. Spider Mites, Scale, and Mealybugs are the three most common pests that may affect the health of your Dracaena fragrans. If you see any signs of these, it’s best to treat them as quickly as possible. Overwatering or underwatering can also result in yellow, limp leaves and poor growth.
Propagating
Dracaena fragrans can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. To propagate, take a healthy stem cutting with at least two to three leaf nodes, let the cut end dry for a day, then plant it in a well-draining potting mix, keeping the soil consistently moist until new roots develop and establish the cutting as a new plant.
Final Thoughts
If you take the time to give your Dracaena fragrans the care it needs, you’ll be rewarded for years to come. Not only does this beautiful plant look gorgeous in any home, but its low-maintenance requirements make it the perfect choice for those with a busy lifestyle. With some love, your Dracaena fragrans will reward you with lush foliage and be a beautiful addition to your home.
