Why Are The Leaves of My Dragon Tree Falling Off?
Everybody who owns a Dragon Tree knows that they are a green gift that just keeps on giving. Vivid, sculptural, multi-leveled foliage and slim trunks make this easy-going Dracaena variety a great choice for myriad spaces, and they are a truly low-maintenance plant for those looking for a low-touch routine. They really don’t need much, but like all living plants, they can react to changes in the seasons, their plant care routines, and more. And for Dragon Trees, that stress can take the form of falling leaves. But don’t fret: this leaf fall is easily diagnosed and corrected. Read on!
Natural Shedding
Leaf shedding happens! We know, we know- it would be nice if our green friends could keep every leaf of their foliage forever, but that just isn’t the way nature works. Dragon Trees naturally shed leaves over time when they lose viability, and the plant directs its energy toward the growth of new leaves. If you prefer not to pick up shedded leaves, you can trim any dying or unhealthy leaves off of it every couple weeks.
Needs Nourishment: Fertilizer!
Dragon Trees are big and beautiful, and they appreciate extra nourishment in the form of fertilizer. If your Dragon Tree is dropping a large amount of leaves, it may be because it is not being sufficiently nourished to sustain all of its foliage. Fertilize your Dragon Tree one to two times per month in the spring and summer to support its growth. Foliar Feed can be utilized year round for gentle nourishment.
Overwatering
If your Dragon Tree is experiencing severe leaf fall and appears to be very stressed, it may be due to overwatering. Dragon Trees do not want to be overwatered, and their top two inches of soil should be allowed to dry fully before watering. To check if your Dragon Tree has been overwatered, remove it (still in its plastic nursery pot) from its ceramic pot. Check the soil for sogginess, and be sure to look into the ceramic pot for standing water. If there is any standing water, dump it out. Allow your Dragon Tree to dry out entirely (still outside of the ceramic pot) before replacing in pot and resuming the standard watering routine of watering only when topsoil is dry. If you’re deeply concerned that your Dragon Tree has been damaged by overwatering, our Plant Doctors can provide assistance. Contact the Plant Doctor service through your Leon and George account, and add a verbal summation of the issue as well as photos of the Dragon Tree as a whole, from bottom of pot to topmost leaf.
Dragon Tree
With vibrant, textural foliage and a low-maintenance disposition, the Dragon Tree is a dreamy floor plant, combining great height with a slim silhouette. Easy to care for and perfectly versatile.