Propagation Of Dracaena

Propagation Method

• Propagate dracaena vegetatively using stem or cane cuttings. Stem cuttings involve cutting about 6 to 8 inches of stem, generally including the terminal portion, off a dracaena shoot. Shoots that come directly from the base of the plant are ideal for this and can be severed easily while the mother plant maintains an attractive appearance. Also propagate dracaena using cane cuttings. Cut the cane into pieces 2 to 3 inches long, each containing at least one bud. With this method, lay the cane portion horizontally on the surface so that the bud faces up. Additionally, if a plant becomes leggy or unattractive, cut canes off of the crown; replant these while the canes are cut into sections for rooting.

Soil and Containers

• Place dracaena cuttings in a well-draining medium, such as a mixture of equal parts peat moss and perlite, to facilitate good root development. The container for the cutting should have adequate drainage holes. In small pots, push cuttings to the base of the container for support. Set cuttings being rooted slightly above the bottom of larger containers to allow more space for root development.

Encouraging Rooting and Survival

• If the cutting cannot be rooted immediately after removal from the mother plant, dip the upper portion in wax or mist it occasionally with water to prevent drying. Remove a small part of the cane's base immediately before treating it with rooting hormone and placing it in the rooting medium.

Care Practices

• Dracaenas will root and grow most vigorously if temperatures are kept between 75 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Provide the cutting with high humidity but avoid letting the soil mix remain continuously wet. Keep the dracaena covered with plastic until new growth emerges to retain moisture. Keep the cutting out of direct sunlight until the plant produces new growth. Once rooted, move the plant to an area with greater light, depending on the species or cultivar, and eventually repot it into a larger container or permanent location. Several pests or problems can impact dracaena, including spider mites, scales, mealybugs, rots and fluoride in the water used for irrigation.