Question
I recently bought a Madagascar Dragon Tree at Lowes. It has four trunk-like stems and they are about 2 feet and 6 inches tall from the bottom near the soil up to where the leaves start, so it has some ways to go before it reaches full length. However, the stems are woven together, braided-like. I want to keep them that way, so do I have to continue training the stems to grow that way or can I leave it and they will continue they're track? Any tips on how to do that would be great, too.
Thanks
Erica

Answer
Hi Erica,

The braided trunks were established when the separate plants were very small and pliable in the greenhouse. They do not grow that way naturally. As they aged, the trunks became stiffer and bark-covered and have probably even grown together some. They will stay braided as long as the plant lives.

Although it is theoretically possible to continue the braiding on newer growth, it is very impractical to do it outside the greenhouse. In addition, some of the lower new growth is probably no longer pliable enough to be braided without snapping the stems.

I suggest that you enjoy the braids that you have and not worry about continued braiding.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions. If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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