New Zealand plant enthusiasts searching for something that is both beautiful and simple to maintain often turn to the dracaena. Its attractive leaves and soft character are suitable for indoors, offices and even shaded external spaces. It is also especially desired in hectic life conditions because it is able to withstand irregular watering and low-light condition indoors.
Finding the Right Plants
The Plant Company prides itself on providing premium plants like Dracaena that flourish in New Zealand climate. They get their plants from the finest nurseries across the nation. You may have faith that every order is painstakingly packed and will arrive to you in the same condition as it was grown in the nursery when you purchase plants. This commitment to quality guarantees you are starting with established, healthy specimens ready to bloom.
Deciding on the Perfect Location
Keeping your plant happy depends on placement. They can adapt to a state of low or filtered lights but dracaena species typically prefer dark, indirect light. If the plant gets less-light leaves lose the vivid color, and if there is too much sunrays the leaves get burnt. The solution is to choose a partial shade spot for outdoor planting or place the pot near the window with filtered light.
Soil and Potting Requirements
Excellent drainage is imperative in order to prevent root rot. Place in a good quality potting mix designed especially to use inside, ideally containing an added layer of perlite or pumice to allow more air circulation around the roots. If you plant in a pot, it should have holes to drain excess water. Repotting is normally necessitated every two to three years or when the plant clearly seems to have overgrown its pot.
Hints on Fertilization and Watering
Overwatering is among the most straightforward means to hurt a Dracaena. In between watering, do not allow the top few inches of soil to remain wet. During hotter months you may water every day. Nevertheless, in winter the plants’ ability to develop slows down, so does its water level needs. In growing season give the plant a balanced liquid fertilizer every six to four weeks, but in colder months reduce fertilizing schedule.
Pruning and Maintenance
Pruning is simple and all one needs to do is remove any yellow or damaged leaves whenever they appear. In case your plant ever gets too tall or leggy you can trim the stems and encourage new growth and keep your plant looking denser. This also makes the plant maintain a vivid fresh look all year round.
Common Issues and Remedies
These plants are capable of withstanding many conditions. But can experience leaf tip browning due to tap water or irregular watering schedule. You can resolve this problem using filtered or rain water. Yellow leaves would point out to excess water, whereas pale leaves indicate lack of light. In spite of its rarity, occasional pests such as spider mites or mealybug if seen should be dealt quickly using insecticidal soap.
Conclusion
A Dracaena is easy to care. You need to invest in a healthy young plant from a reliable source. Monitor their watering feeding, and lighting elements. Besides, benefit from their spectacular looks and air cleaning ability.
