Dracaena plants are popular for their ornamental value and versatility in both indoor and outdoor settings. As tropical plants, they generally thrive in warm, frost-free environments. However, some species can be successfully grown indoors and are well-suited for low-light conditions or brightly lit spaces.
In regions where temperatures usually do not fall below frost levels, like zones 9 to 11, dracaena plants can be grown outdoors. They are often planted in landscapes and prefer part sun, as full sun exposure can scorch their leaves. For those living in regions with colder climates, dracaena can be grown indoors as decorative houseplants, requiring average room temperatures between 60°F to 80°F (16°C – 27°C) and adaptability to varying light conditions.
Knowing whether to grow dracaena indoors or outdoors ultimately depends on the specific type of dracaena and the climate conditions of your location. For instance, the popular Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana) is a great choice for elegant indoor spaces, while other varieties may be more suitable for outdoor growth in frost-free zones. By understanding the distinct needs and characteristics of your dracaena plant, you can create the optimal environment for its growth and enjoy its beauty in your space.
Dracaena Overview
General Information
Dracaena is a popular plant known for its attractive foliage and easy care requirements. These plants can adapt to a range of lighting conditions, from dimly lit offices to bright, south-facing windows. However, varieties with bright colors do best in bright light, and if planted outdoors, they prefer part sun to avoid foliage damage from full sun exposure ^(source). Dracaena is a tropical plant and can only survive outdoors in frost-free zones (zones 9, 10, and 11) ^(source).
Varieties
There are numerous Dracaena varieties, each with unique characteristics and growth habits. Some popular varieties include:
- Dracaena fragrans: Also known as fragrant Dracaena or corn plant, this variety sports strap-like leaves that emerge in a fountain-like cluster from a thick woody stem. Grown as a potted plant, it can reach up to 6 feet in height, while outdoor growth in zones 10 to 12 can exceed 20 feet ^(source).
- Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana): This variety is a favorite for elegant and minimalist indoor spaces. It features green, glossy stems with rings that resemble bamboo when grown upright. When cut, the stems produce a few leaves on the sides, giving it an airy appearance ^(source).
- Dracaena surculosa ‘Milky Way’: A rare species, this variety has a clumping growth habit and thin, arching stems. Its broad elliptic leaves feature a white center band, which inspired its name. The plant can reach up to 1 foot in height and thrives in bright, indirect, or filtered sunlight ^(source).
Remember, each Dracaena variety may have slightly different care requirements, so it’s essential to research the specific type you own. No matter which variety you choose, Dracaena plants can make a wonderful addition to both indoor and outdoor spaces.
Indoor Vs Outdoor Planting
Adaptability to Environments
Dracaena is a versatile plant, known for its adaptability to both indoor and outdoor environments. Many of its species, such as the popular Lucky Bamboo, can thrive indoors with minimal care, making them popular choices for homes and offices. Other species, like the Madagascar Dragon Tree and Corn Plant, can also be kept indoors and generally grow to modest heights.
On the other hand, certain Dracaena varieties can also be grown outdoors, particularly in regions with mild temperatures. It’s important to gradually expose the plant to the outdoors to avoid shock, especially in the case of frost, where moving it back indoors is crucial.
Growing Conditions
To ensure the healthy growth of Dracaena, it’s crucial to provide the ideal growing conditions. Whether planted indoors or outdoors, Dracaena thrives in settings with ample indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight may harm the plants, so it’s better to choose a spot with filtered light.
When it comes to temperature, maintaining a range between 60-80°F is optimal for the plant’s well-being. Dracaena can become damaged if the temperature drops below 60°F, so be mindful of its positioning indoors or outdoors regarding artificial heating and air-conditioning.
Watering is another vital aspect of Dracaena care. These plants need sufficient water but should avoid standing in water or becoming oversaturated. Providing well-drained soil helps maintain the plant’s overall health.
Lastly, regular feeding with a basic fertilizer during the growing season can encourage the plant’s growth and overall health. It’s essential to stick to a routine to ensure the Dracaena plant’s longevity, whether grown indoors or outdoors.
Care and Maintenance
Lighting Requirements
Dracaena plants are quite flexible when it comes to their lighting requirements. They can adapt well to various lighting conditions ranging from dimly lit office buildings to brightly lit south-facing windows. Varieties with bright colors, however, thrive better in bright light. If planted outdoors, these plants prefer part sun, as full sun may cause the foliage to burn.
Watering
Watering your Dracaena depends on the specific variety you have. As a general guideline, you should water your Dracaena when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In low light conditions or cool temperatures, your Dracaena may require less frequent watering. Similarly, in bright light or warm conditions, it may need watering more often.
Fertilization
To keep your Dracaena healthy and encourage growth, it’s a good idea to fertilize it occasionally. Generally, you should feed your Dracaena every other week during the spring and summer, cutting back to once a month in the fall. During the winter, when the plant goes relatively dormant, it’s best not to fertilize at all.
Dracaenas are easy, low-maintenance indoor plants that will thrive and adapt in almost any environment. By providing the proper lighting, watering, and fertilization, your Dracaena plant can continue to grow and beautify your indoor or outdoor spaces.
Potential Problems
Pests
Dracaena plants, when grown indoors, may occasionally encounter issues with pests. Some common pests that might infest your dracaena include thrips, mealybugs, and spider mites. Here are some tips for dealing with pests on your dracaena:
- Check your plant regularly for signs of infestation, such as damaged leaves or stunted growth
- Remove pests by wiping leaves with a damp cloth, or using a gentle stream of water to wash them off
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat severe infestations
- Maintain proper humidity levels by placing a shallow tray of rocks and water underneath the plant pot
Diseases
Dracaena plants may also suffer from a few diseases, predominantly caused by over-watering or poorly drained soil. Some common diseases that may affect your dracaena include fusarium leaf spot and soft rot.
- Fusarium leaf spot: This disease results in brown spots on the leaves, usually surrounded by a yellow halo. To prevent fusarium leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and make sure the plant receives adequate ventilation. If you notice leaf spot on your dracaena, you can treat it with a fungicide according to label directions.
- Soft rot: If your dracaena appears to be rotting and has a foul smell, it may be experiencing soft rot. Unfortunately, this disease is not curable, and the best course of action is to dispose of the infected plant. To prevent soft rot in the future, ensure that your dracaena’s soil is well-draining, and avoid over-watering.
In addition to these diseases, dracaena plants may suffer from brown leaf tips due to tap water/fluoride toxicity or the buildup of fertilizers and salts from softened water. To prevent this issue, water your dracaena with filtered or purified water, and repot the plant every couple of years to refresh the soil.
Helpful Video
My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.
