Dragon tree pruning

Dragon tree pruning

1. 01

   Choose what to remove

   Shorten a weak woody cane or stem to about 6 inches (15 cm) when that reduction serves a clear purpose. Do not cut the leaf rosette routinely.

   Use pruning to remove weak growth or keep an indoor plant at a manageable height. New shoots can form just below the cut.

2. 02

   Prune at the right time

   Shorten the cane in spring, when indoor growth can resume after the cut. Treat spring as a season, not a fixed date.

3. 03

   Make one clean cut

   Use sharp tools to make a clean cut on the selected cane. New shoots can form below the cut instead of leaving a damaged stub.

4. 04

   When pruning will not help

   Dracaena marginata normally needs little regular pruning. Avoid heavy reduction, keep the central structure, and do not cut healthy leaves just to create a schedule.

5. 05

   Care for the plant after pruning

   Return the cut plant to a stable indoor position with bright, indirect light and keep checking the mix and water quality. Do not compensate with extra fertilizer or water.