Dracaena Fragrans Variegated Corn Plant Care Guide
What is the Dracaena Fragrans Variegated Corn Plant?
The “Corn” or “Cornstalk Plant” is referred to as such due to the way in which its leaves resemble the shape and weight of cornstalks. Its thick, sturdy stem leads to a head of long, bright green leaves, which grow upward. This tall variation grows especially upright, and is perfect as a floor piece.
The ideal beginner’s plant, this succulent practically grows itself, requiring little to no assistance from you in order to grow. You would be hard pressed to find another plant that does so much of the work for you!
Light Care
The Dracaena Fragrans Variegated Corn Plant prefers bright, indirect light. When offered these conditions, the plant can grow without fear of its colors and growth being negatively impacted. When exposed to bright, direct light for a long period of time, its leaves can burn and lose their natural coloring.
Receiving too little light can be even more impactful, going as far as causing your plant’s growth to be stunted or, in some cases, causing it to die. Make sure to place your Fragrant Dracaena in a space that provides consistent, indirect light.
Water Care
Water your Dracaena Fragrans Variegated Corn Plant on a biweekly basis. This plant is drought-resistant, which means that you do not need to water it very often. A biweekly regimen allows you to provide it with sustenance without fear of overwatering. Make sure to water the soil evenly and all the way through, moisturizing as much of the soil as possible.
To check the water levels of your plant’s soil, place a water meter a few inches into the soil, where it will give you an accurate indication. If you do not own a water meter, stick one finger knuckle-deep into the soil. At this depth, you will be able to accurately account for the soil’s level of moistness.
Food Guide
Provide your Dracaena Fragrans Variegated Corn Plant with well-draining potting soil. In doing this, your plant will be provided with a source of helpful minerals and can avoid the harmful effects of stagnant water. Other soils work as well, but do not ensure the same quality growth as that of a well-draining soil.
Fertilize your plant sparingly during the growing season, only once or twice. The Fragrant Dracaena grows well with nothing but soil and water, which is why many experts recommend avoiding fertilizer altogether. If you feel like giving your plant an extra boost, make sure to use fertilizer that does not include flouride.
Staff Holy Grail Tip:
It’s important to always keep in mind that the Variegated Corn Plant grows slowly. While you might not notice your plant’s journey taking off at the speed of some other plants, there’s no need to feel discouraged. The key here is to maintain a consistent care schedule and plan for the long haul. Provide it ample bright, indirect light, but feel free to place it in low light conditions for periods of time if necessary; it’s built to flourish even without constant sunlight. Provide it water on a set schedule, but consider reducing the amount of water during the winter, since your plant won’t need nearly as much in order to grow.
