Features
‘Janet Craig’ is a popular variety that is more tolerant of lower light levels and drier soil than other Dracaena. Its abundance of narrow, glossy green leaves makes it a top choice among houseplants for those seeking their air cleaning benefits.
Caution: Dracaena plants contain a chemical called saponin that is toxic to cats and dogs. Pets ingesting saponins can experience gastrointestinal upset like stomach pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Uses
Perfect for all kinds of containers as a corner or entry accent.
What am I doing wrong if the bottom leaves are turning really brown? How do I when it needs plant food? When do I know when it’s time to repot this plant?
Hi Ruth,
Some lower leaf loss is natural as the plant grows. If your plant is otherwise healthy and producing new growth, this could be the case.
Nutrient deficiency will typically show up as a discoloration of the foliage. You should fertilize when the plant is experiencing active growth, typically spring through fall whether your plant is indoors or outdoors. Frequency will depend on what type of fertilizer you’re using so you’ll want to follow the product directions regarding the rate of application.
One way to tell if a plant is ready for repotting is if roots are obviously emerging from the drainage holes in the bottom of the pot. In this case you will want to repot into a larger pot. The other way to tell if it needs repotting is to remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. You can find more details in our article on How to Repot a Plant. Over time soil can break down, become compacted and depleted of nutrients. Even if your potted plant isn’t root-bound it can be beneficial to repot it once or twice a year just to refresh and aerate the soil.