Question
I was given a dying corn plant by a co-worker.  The plant is in a huge pot, and 2 of the 4 canes were already goners when I got it.  I am trying to save the last 2 but fear I may be too late.  The leaves were mostly brown, with a few struggling green ones when I cut them all off, planning to cut the canes down so they would not fall out of the loose potting they are in. Over the last week, I noticed one of the canes has gotten a little soft so I tried watering more thinking they were dried out from being outside, currently it is on a patio but there is no direct light where it sits.  Any suggestions or should I let it go and get a new plant? Let me know if you need more information!  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Mattie,

It is hard to give a definitive answer without a photo of your Dracaena massangeana cane. However, based on your description, it is probably best to let it go. Whatever caused the first two canes to die (improper watering is the most likely cause) is also probably effecting the remaining two canes in the same way.

Canes that are soft or have bark that is loose and papery are certainly beyond recovery. Dead or dying canes can be removed by rotating the canes in place until they spin freely and can be pulled straight up and out without disturbing the roots of any remaining canes.

If you want to try to salvage your plant, don't cut the canes. Move them to the vertical and press the soil in tight around the base of the canes so they stay in place and don't lean. You must also move it inside because outdoor indirect light is too intense for this plant that has been acclimated to indoor light.

I have written an article on Corn Plant care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

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

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

Visit my website at: A link to HorticulturalHelp.com