Question

the tree in question   Ok so I thought this tree was pretty neat and would liven up my bedroom. So I got it from a friend. Only problem is... I have no idea what kind it is, or how to take care of it. I thought a new pot would be helpful but I don't know what to repot it in, or fertilizer. I tried to search for it but couldn't find it on the internet, so I'm turning to you. Right now it stands about 3 feet but in the last year it grew about 6 inches. If you could point me towards some resources that'd be great. Thx!

Answer
Tony,

You have a Dracaena marginata commonly known as Madagascar dragon tree. If you repot it make sure that the new pot has a drain hole in the bottom of the pot and that it has a diameter no more than 2 inches larger than the diameter of the pot you are taking it out of. I recommend you buy the cheapest potting soil you can find and an extra bag of perlite. Do not get the moisture control soil because it holds too much water and keeps the plant too wet causing the roots to rot. Mix 2 parts of cheap potting soil with 1 part of perlite and use that to repot this plant. Water it well when you water it and an hour later empty the drain tray under it. This will help keep the roots from rotting. Water it again when the surface of the soil has been dry for 2-4 days. It needs to dry out between waterings. It likes some sun but not for more than a couple of hours a day.

For fertilizer I recommend a water soluble fertilizer like Miracle Grow or one of the generic versions. E-mail me again when it starts getting too tall for your dorm room and I will tell you how to shorten it. You can check the following websites for more info: http://www.ehow.com/how_4663876_plant-aka-madagascar-dragon-tree.html

http://www.indoor-plant-care.com/plant-list/dracaena-marginata/

http://www.guide-to-houseplants.com/dragon-tree.html

If you have more questions feel free to write again after you review those websites. Good luck with your tree and college!!

Darlene