did you know?

A member of the Agave family, Dracaena's botanical name comes from the Greek for "female dragon," a reference to the resinous red gum that exudes from injured stems.

general maintenance:

Groom plants, removing yellowed foliage. To rejuvenate tall, leggy plants, air layer or cut back to within a few inches of plant base. New growth will develop from plant base. Repot when plant becomes root bound.

pests/diseases:

Spider mites, aphids, and scale insects may occur.

controls:

Control spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, following label directions. To deter spider mites, mist frequently to increase humidity. To control scale, remove with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, remove infested leaves (or branches), or spray horticultural oil, following label directions.

how to sow/plant:

Start with established plants in well-drained potting mix. If repotting, set plants at same depth they grew in previous pot. The soil level should be 1/2 to 1 inch below rim of pot to provide a reservoir when watering.

water and fertilize:

When soil surface is dry to touch, water thoroughly until water flows out the pot's drainage holes. During growing season, regularly apply houseplant fertilizer, following label directions. In winter when planting is resting, water sparingly and stop fertilizing; resume in spring as days lengthen.

garden hint:

Dracaena leaves have pores (stomates) that clog easily when dust builds up on leaf surfaces. Occasionally wipe dust off glossy leaves with a clean, soft cloth.

features:

garden uses:

• Indoors

other uses: