Question
I inherited a Dracaena plant from a friend last fall, it has been doing great since I brought it home...growing taller and branching out. I even successfully propagated a baby by air layering. anyway my question is why does the new growth seem to be producing smaller leaves? it has not been anyway since my friend had gotten the tree about 4 years ago...roots are showing through the drain holes. any advice is helpful!!

Answer
Hi Jacob,

I assume your plant is a Dracaena marginata, but I cannot be sure. In any case, light is the factor that determines growth rate and leaf size. When grown in moderately high light (very bright indirect light 16 hours per day), the foliage is thicker, longer and sturdier. In reduced light, the plant may be just as healthy, but the leaf cell structure will be different from leaves grown in stronger light.

I have written detailed articles on light and on Dracaena marginata care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected]. I have also written an indoor plant care book in a PDF format that I can sell you if you contact me at my email address.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com