Question
I have a 50 year old Dracaena, which I have to move.  It is in 14" of soil, which is on top of limestone.  The base is 18" and the root system is shallow and large.  The plant is 12 feet tall and very thick.
How can I successfully transplant it without losing too much of the growth?  It is in Honolulu.

Answer
The size of the root system is in direct correlation with the size of the crown...when you transplant, it will probably show transplant shock...but it should recover quickly...they are very resilient. Try to get as much of the root system intact as possible, and have the new location ready (dug out) so that the transition is as quick and painless as possible Give it a good drink prior to digging and then after it is transplanted...and then water everyday thereafter for at least a week.. Nick.........You can cut the top if its too leggy...and stick the cutting in the ground and you've got yourself a new plant!