Cultivation techniques and precautions for Dracaena

Dracaena is a plant with great ornamental value. It has a regular shape and emerald green leaves, which symbolize longevity, happiness and health. It is a common indoor foliage plant. Let’s learn about the cultivation techniques and precautions of Dracaena below.

1. Breeding techniques

1. Soil selection

Dracaena grows best in loose, fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Leaf mold, peat soil and perlite can be mixed in a ratio of 3:2:1. You can also use a mix of 5 parts vermiculite, 3 parts perlite , and 3 parts peat. Applying ferrous sulfate once a month will ensure that the soil is slightly acidic, which is suitable for its growth.

2. Lighting management

Dracaena likes light, but needs to avoid direct sunlight. It can be placed in a sunny location in spring, autumn and winter, but needs appropriate shade in summer. Ensure at least 2 hours of sunlight per day.

3. Temperature control

The suitable temperature for growth is 20-28℃, the highest does not exceed 32℃, and the lowest is not lower than 10℃. The temperature in winter needs to be kept above 5℃ to avoid frost damage.

4. Watering tips

Follow the principle of "water when dry and water when wet", that is, water after the soil surface is dry to avoid water accumulation. Water every 2-3 days in spring and autumn. Increase the watering frequency appropriately during high temperatures in summer and reduce watering in winter.

5. Fertilization method

During the growing season (spring, summer and autumn), apply thin liquid fertilizer every half a month. Newly planted dragon blood trees can be fertilized once every two months to avoid fertilizer damage.

6. Pruning and shaping

Regularly prune dead branches, yellow leaves and overly dense branches and leaves to keep the plants well ventilated and light-permeable. The leaves at the bottom and the top that are too long can be trimmed as needed to make the plant more compact and beautiful.

7. Reproduction Method

Home propagation generally uses the cutting method combined with pruning, and the best time for cuttings is from April to August each year. When cutting, remove the lower 1/2-2/3 of the leaves, insert into clean river sand, and keep the temperature between 20-30℃.

2. Precautions

1. Winter management

In winter, the dragon blood tree enters a dormant period. It is necessary to stop fertilizing, reduce watering, and keep the soil slightly dry. The plant can be moved to a warm place indoors to avoid low temperature damage.

2. Fertilization control

Avoid excessive application of nitrogen fertilizer, otherwise it will cause the leaf texture to fade and affect the ornamental effect.

3. Repotting

Change the pot every 2-3 years, replace new culture soil, and prune old roots to promote healthy growth of the plant.

In general, Dracaena is a relatively easy plant to maintain. As long as you pay attention to the above points, it can thrive. If you have other questions about cultivation, please continue to leave a message.