Dracaena Lemon Lime 4”

Light:

• Bright, indirect light is best for Dracaena Lemon Lime, as it helps maintain the vibrant leaf color.

• It can tolerate lower light conditions but may grow more slowly, and the colors may not be as bright.

• Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to scorch or fade.

Watering:

• Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Dracaena Lemon Lime prefers evenly moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.

• Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down.

• Use filtered or distilled water if possible, as Dracaenas are sensitive to fluoride and chlorine in tap water, which can cause brown tips on the leaves.

Humidity:

• This plant tolerates average household humidity, but it will benefit from higher humidity levels, especially in dry environments.

• You can increase humidity by misting the plant, placing it on a pebble tray with water, or using a humidifier.

Soil:

• Use a well-draining potting mix. A general-purpose houseplant soil mix works well, or you can add perlite or sand to improve drainage.

• Make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the bottom.

Temperature:

• Dracaena Lemon Lime prefers temperatures between 65°F and 80°F 
• Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 55°F, and keep it away from cold drafts or heat sources like radiators.

Fertilizer:

• Feed the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer.

• Stop fertilizing in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.

Repotting:

• Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter.

• Refresh the soil with fresh potting mix during repotting to ensure the plant has enough nutrients.

 Pruning:

• Dracaena Lemon Lime can grow tall and leggy over time. Prune any yellow or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy.

• If it becomes too tall, you can cut the top back to encourage bushier growth. The pruned stem can even be propagated in water or soil.

Pests:

• Watch for spider mites, scale, and mealybugs, which can occasionally affect Dracaena plants.

• Regularly inspect the plant, and if pests appear, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Toxicity:

• Warning: Dracaena Lemon Lime is toxic to pets if ingested, causing symptoms like vomiting or drooling in cats and dogs. Keep it out of reach of pets and small children.

Signs of Overwatering or Underwatering:

• Overwatering can cause the leaves to turn yellow or brown, and root rot may occur if the soil is too soggy.

• Underwatering can result in dry, brown tips on the leaves. Adjust watering frequency based on the plant’s needs.

 Brown Tips:

• Brown leaf tips are common in Dracaenas and are usually caused by low humidity, overwatering, or the use of tap water containing fluoride or chlorine.

• Trim off the brown tips, and adjust care accordingly to prevent further damage.