Corn Plant Cane Rot: Salvaging Healthy Tops

An 8-year-old corn plant (Dracaena massangeana) lost one cane to rot; peeling revealed dead, smelly tissue. The other half of the cane is green. Expert Will Creed: bark separation means roots are dead—cane cannot be saved. However, healthy top stems can be cut and rooted in water or damp potting mix. Determine cause (usually overwatering, insufficient light, or underwatering) to save remaining cane. Ensure light within 6 ft of sunny window; water when top third of soil dry. Free corn plant care article via email.