Question
this is her :)
i work at home depot and being the time of year that it is, we have TONS of plants. i just remodelled my room and decided to buy a plant to add to the room. i noticed a couple "dracaena massangeana" plants at work by the door. it says right on them to avoid cold drafts and yet they still put them next to the doors that open and close quite often. i picked one out and brought it home. it seems to look like its in fine shape, but how do i tell for sure and what should i do to take care of it? it was brought home in one of those plastic black pots, should i buy a "real" pot for it? these are the conditions of the house to maybe help you give me the best advice. my room isnt a big or small room, its average size. everyone in the house of three is a smoker. your help and advice is much appreciated!! thank you!
AnswerStephanie,
Keep her in a bright location where she will make a shadow on a sunny day. No you should not repot her for at least a year or two. That pot has lots of drainage holes which is a good thing. You can set that pot in a drain tray in side a wicker basket or in a ceramic cachepot.
Be careful not to water it with water that has chlorine or flouride in it. Those chemicals will cause large brown patches on the leaves. You can either buy distilled water to water it or you can leave your water sit in an open bucket for 48 hours before using it and the chlorine & flouride will disipate into the air. Only water it when the top inch of the soil feels totally dry and the plant feels lighter. Water it enough so all the soil in the pot is moist and an hour after you water it empty the drain tray under the pot so it is not sitting in a tray full of water as that will cause the roots to rot. If you have more questions feel free to write again. Good luck.
Darlene
