Repotting

Repotting is best done in spring and summer. It’s time to repot when you see roots actively growing out of the drainage holes in your plant’s pot. Remove the plant and gently massage the roots to loosen them. Replant with fresh houseplant soil into a container that is no more than a couple of inches larger than the last one. Don’t forget to give it a good soak when you’re done!

If your plants don’t need to be repotted but you want to freshen the soil, follow the steps above and replant into the same container. You can also add a few inches of fresh potting soil to the surface as needed to keep the soil level topped up.

Cleaning & Pruning

Most Dracaenas don’t need a lot of pruning, but you can remove older leaves as needed to keep the plant looking neat. If your plant has grown too tall, you can cut the stems back at a 45-degree angle with clean pruners. and they will push out new branches from just below the cut. This can also create denser foliage. Like repotting, this is best done in the spring and summer when the plant is actively growing. You may also want to occasionally wipe the leaves to remove dust.

Propagating

Dracaena plants can be propagated with stem cuttings, which are best done in the spring. Cut a section of stem (at least 6”) and place it in a small container of water or a small container with evenly moist soil. Dip one end of the cut stem into the rooting powder, then place the stem in either water or a small container with evenly moist soil. Refresh the water every week and keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. When a good number of roots have developed, transplant your cutting into a small container. You want the container to have enough room for the roots and a little extra space to grow but not be so large that there is excess soil, which can stay too wet and rot the plant.

Aimée Damman

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