What to Do When Dragon Tree Leaves Turn Yellow? Choosing the Right Fertilizer Is Key
Dragon tree - just hearing the name makes you feel this is a plant imbued with primeval power. Indeed, the dragon tree grows very slowly, and this state allows its lifespan to far exceed that of other plants, earning it the title of the longevity elder of the plant kingdom. But even if the “longevity elder” lives long, it can hardly withstand wind and rain, so once the owner who grows it is careless, all kinds of problems will appear.
What to Do When Dragon Tree Leaves Turn Yellow
1. Repotting
The dragon tree can be repotted once every 2-3 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger if possible, to give it enough growing space; a plant that is confined will never grow vigorously. When repotting, do not merely try your best to avoid damaging the roots - do everything possible to avoid damaging the roots. If you have done your duty and the roots still get damaged, then just let it recover on its own; it is fine, it is very tough!
2. Watering and fertilizing go hand in hand
Apart from winter, when no fertilizing is needed, the dragon tree can be given light but frequent applications in spring, summer and autumn. Keep the potting soil moist, and when necessary spray water on the leaves and mist above the plant to increase air humidity. A dragon tree kept in a shady spot for a long time can also be given some sun exposure for photosynthesis, to smell the scent of sunshine.
3. The appearance of pests and diseases cannot be tolerated
When pests and diseases appear, be sure to check promptly, spray promptly, and promptly rescue those leaves that have not yet turned yellow.
What Fertilizer to Apply to Dragon Tree
1. When fertilizing the dragon tree, the concentration of the fertilizer must not be too strong; it must be applied lightly, and nitrogen fertilizer should not be applied too much. You can apply more potassium fertilizer, phosphorus fertilizer, etc. If too much nitrogen fertilizer is applied, the markings on its leaves will become indistinct or their ornamental value will be reduced.
2. The dragon tree enters a dormant period in winter, and in this state it will not absorb nutrients, so fertilizing can be stopped at this time. But water it appropriately; do not let the potting soil become too dry.
3. After successfully planting the dragon tree, at least ensure fertilizing once to twice every two months. While fertilizing, also ensure the soil moisture and good ventilation.
4. The seasons when the dragon tree grows most vigorously are spring, summer and autumn, so in these three seasons increase the amount of fertilizing to keep the dragon tree growing vigorously. You can fertilize once every ten-plus days. But be sure to remember that the fertilizer concentration should not be too high.
How to Care for Dragon Tree in Winter
1. Temperature: The dragon tree is fairly afraid of cold. The best temperature for winter cultivation is between 10 degrees and 20 degrees, and the lowest temperature must not be below 10 degrees. Being in too low a temperature for a long time will affect its roots' ability to absorb water normally, causing spots to appear at the tips and edges of the leaves.
2. Fertilizing: The dragon tree also enters a dormant stage in winter, so fertilizing should be suspended.
3. Water: In winter, watering should be appropriately reduced, about once every 10 to 15 days, keeping the soil slightly moist. This can ensure it safely overwinters.
4. Sunlight: Actually, the dragon tree likes sunlight, and sufficient sunlight can make its leaf color more vivid. So in winter, when growing it indoors, you can place it in a spot where sunlight can shine in directly. Move it often so the plant is exposed to light more evenly, but be sure not to leave it in a dark place for too long, as this is not good for the plant's healthy growth. If there is no sunlight indoors for a long time, you can use lamplight to make up for it.
5. Points to note
When growing it indoors in winter, try to avoid the air outlets of air conditioners and other heating equipment. Ventilate the dragon tree often, as this can reduce the occurrence of pests and diseases. When watering, it is best to let the water temperature, soil and indoor temperature be similar; you can let the water sit for a few days before watering.
What to Do When Dragon Tree Leaves Curl
1. Overwatering
When too much water is given and the water cannot drain smoothly, the potting soil will remain wet for a long time. At this point the plant's roots also cannot normally absorb nutrients and water from the potting soil, and its leaves will naturally curl.
Solution: First move it to a place with better ventilation and leave it there for a while. If it is planted in a tall, slender colored-glaze pot, then consider changing to a shorter unglazed pottery pot, as this is very beneficial to its growth because unglazed pottery pots have good breathability.
2. Too Much Sunlight
Although it is suited to growing under conditions of sufficient light, overly strong light will cause its leaves to curl.
Solution: If you do not want to move its position, then you can appropriately shade the sunlight around midday. Apart from the time at noon, there is no need to shade it.
3. Dry Environment
It neither likes a humid environment nor an overly dry one. Being in a humid state for a long time will cause its leaves to wilt, etc., while being in a dry environment for a long time will make its leaves curl.
Solution: You can appropriately spray some mist on its leaves, and at the same time sprinkle some water on the ground around it to ease the overly dry environmental conditions.
Different plants have different growth habits and environments, so naturally there will be some differences in their watering methods and amounts. The dragon tree likes a high-temperature, high-humidity growing environment. If you want to grow it healthily and lushly, mastering the watering method is very important.