Caring for dracaena: step by step for a healthy plant

Culture and maintenance sheet for Dracaena marginata

Very aesthetic and easy to grow, dracaena marginata is one of the most popular varieties for indoor plant lovers. It looks like a palm tree, but is not. Its elegant and authentic foliage brings an exotic touch to the decor.

Dracaena technical sheet

French name: dragon tree of Madagascar
Latin name: Dracaena marginata
Family: agavaceae
Dimension: 1 to 2 meter high indoors
Planting: spring
Exposure: bright Soil: fertile soil Watering:

• spring / summer: every 4 to 5 days
• autumn / winter: one to two waterings per month

How is dracaena marginata cultivated?

Dracaena marginata grows at temperatures of around 20 and 22 ° C under good light exposure .
It should be placed near a window facing west or south, as good light is favorable for its growth. Note that this plant, like all green plants, does not survive the absence of light. A rather dark apartment will slow down its growth.

To plant dracaena marginata in a pot, here are some essential steps to follow:

– Use special potting soil for green plants.

– Install a bed of gravel at the bottom of the pot to facilitate drainage and avoid water stagnation at the roots . Small pebbles or clay balls are possible for this task.

– Bring a pot a little larger than the original one, a size just above.

– Gently handle the young shoot of dracaena marginata then repot .

– Water copiously .

Every 2 to 3 years in the spring, it is a good idea to repot the dracaena marginata to ensure its growth and longevity . Regular surfacing is recommended to meet the plant’s nutrient needs if the pot is already large and repotting is no longer possible.
In addition, to ensure better health of dracaena marginata indoors, it is recommended not to expose it to a temperature below 10 ° C for a long time.

As for growing dracaena marginata outdoors, it is only possible in a hot climate . In winter, the dracaena marginata only survives a winter temperature of at least 15 and 16 ° C.

How to water the dracaena marginata?

The dracaena requires regular watering to develop fully. Throughout the year, a non-calcareous water spray is also required on its foliage because it requires a good level of humidity in the air. As for its watering, it depends on the season:

-In spring and summer: the dracaena marginata is in full growth period , regular watering every 4 to 5 days may be necessary. In order not to suffocate or cause root rot, watering should be measured. It is advisable to leave the soil dry on the surface before repeating the operation.

– In autumn and winter: the needs of the plant are reduced. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to moisten the potting soil if it starts to get dry for a few inches. One to two monthly waterings is sufficient.

What fertilizer to give to dracaena marginata?

The Madagascar dragon tree particularly appreciates humidity. As mentioned above, its planting requires the use of a bed of clay or gravel balls and special potting soil for indoor plants. However, to meet its nutritional needs, a supply of fertilizer is necessary to feed the soil.

During its growth period, a contribution of liquid fertilizer is essential every 15 days. The pot should also be rotated regularly so that the plant grows evenly.
If any leaves wilt, they should be pruned and the rest of the foliage cleaned with a rag. Note that the fertilizer application must stop between October and April.

How to cut the dracaena marginata?

To multiply the Madagascar dragon tree , it is possible to use a cuttings at the base of the mother plant. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Make a hole at the foot of the dracaena marginata.
2. Install a biodegradable pot filled with seedling potting soil in the hollow. Note that the transplanting substrate must be light.
3. Cut a fairly long stem at the level of the first row of leaves.
4. Remove the other layers of leaves which clutter in order to ensure a better recovery.
5. Cut out the few remaining leaves (2 or 3).
6. Plant the cutting in the pot.
7. Cover the cutting with the substrate.
8. Spray the leaves, the substrate and the rest of the pot with water.