When Do You Transplant Dracaena?

Starting Dracaena

• Gardeners propagate dracaena from existing plants. Stem cutting requires cutting a 3- to 6-inch segment of the existing stem and placing it horizontally in potting soil. Optionally, dip the stem in a rooting hormone before placing in the soil. The horizontal position exposes more of the stem for root development while the new plant develops from an end of the stem. Another option is to place end of the stem in sand or other soil-less growing medium after dipping the stem in rooting hormone.

Transplant Time

• Transplant after the new stem emerges and develops several leaves. Transplanting is not necessary if you started the cutting in the planned container. If transplanting, carefully remove the plant from the original pot causing as little disturbance to the roots as possible.

Pruning and Care

• Growth habits of the dracaena center on a single stem with a leaf structure at the top. The stem continues to grow and ultimately the plant can become too tall for its indoor environment. Prune the stalk above the leaves when the plant reaches the desired height. Other care involves removing any brown leaves that develop. Water the plant when the surface of the container is dry to the touch with warm water.

Varieties

• The Dracaena fragrans, more commonly known as the corn plant, features leaves that resemble those of corn. The Massangeana cultivar of the plant features yellow coloring within the green leaves while the Lindenii has white edges and the Victoria features golden leaf edges. The Red-Edge Dracaena originated in Madagascar. The plant grows to heights of 10 feet if not pruned with leaves of up to 18 inches. The ribbon plant (Dracaena sanderana) is the smallest of the family reaching just 5 inches and is commonly used in low or dish containers.