Question
I have what I believe is a Dranaca compacta variegata and have had some problems of the leaf tips and the midlle of the leaves turing brown and yellow. It is in a 12" pot and has been for over a year, it is about 34" tall. I water it about every week and have a a Jobes drip feeder in it.It has some light but not direct. We just recently move about 3 months ago but the plant never got damaged. I did have to spray it with a insect spray about a week ago as there where some tiny little filies in the bottom of the pot.I aslo just toped up the soil with a well draining soil.

Answer
Hi Alicia,

I don't know that I have seen a variegated Dracaena compacta, but there are new hybrids on the market every day. However, you may have a variegated Dracaena reflexa. Compactas and reflexas look similar. However, both require the same care so it will not affect my answer in this case.

The presence of fungus gnats ("tiny little flies") is a good indication that your plant is staying too moist and the roots may be starting to rot.

Remove all of the soil  that you added on top. Topping off may be a good idea for alcoholic beverages or coffee, but it is not a good practice with plants.

Remove the Jobe's drip feeder. Not only does your plant not need additional nutrients, but anything that drips will keep the soil too dry.

"Some light" may not be enough light. Your plant needs lots of very bright indirect light. It should be very close to a north or east window or to a partially shaded south window.

Allow the top quarter of the soil (after you have removed the soil that you added) to dry out before watering. That extra drying out may halt the root rot and it will also deter the fungus gnats that lay eggs in the top inch or two of the soil.

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

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If you would like to e-mail me some photos, I may be able to provide some additional insights.