Reviving a Corn Plant After Frost Damage

Assessing the Damage

Corn plant (Dracaena fragrans 'Massangeana') is tropical. Even brief exposure to near-freezing temperatures ruins the foliage. The roots, insulated by soil, may survive.

Immediate Steps

1. Trim off all discolored, droopy leaves—they won't recover.
2. If any stems are left bare, cut them back halfway.
3. Move the plant to a warm (65–75°F), bright spot with no direct sun.

Recovery Care

• Water only when the top quarter of soil is dry. The plant will use less water while leafless.
• Do not fertilize or repot—both stress damaged roots.
• Be patient. New shoots may take 2–3 months to appear.

For the future, use saucers under pots and never move tropical plants outside until nights are reliably above 55°F.