Reviving a 20-Year-Old Corn Plant (Dracaena massangeana)

Gardener's 4-ft corn plant (Dracaena) has only one green leaf after grandmother root-pruned 15 years ago. Asks whether to air-layer top or cut back to base.

Try Gentle Rehabilitation First

1. Repot in fresh potting mix, trim roots lightly.
2. Water, apply dilute 12-12-12 fertilizer.
3. Place in bright, diffused light (sheer curtain).

Natural Aging

Dracaenas can live decades but eventually decline. This may be end of life.

Resources

Dracaena care guide: dracaena.com.

If rehab fails, propagate from cane cuttings—but the mother plant may be done.