Dragon tree loses yellow leaves

Of the Dragon tree is a popular houseplant and can be found in many living rooms. However, due to its tropical origin, it is not entirely easy to care for. Yellow leaves, brown tips and loss of leaves are unfortunately not uncommon. Here we reveal to those interested what the reasons for this can be and what can be remedied.

Brown tips

One of the most common problems with the dragon tree is brown leaf tips. They usually arise in a short time and often immediately after the purchase. The following factors are responsible for this:

• very dry room air
• high temperatures, for example due to a location right next to a radiator
• Lack of water

A risk factor for brown tips is therefore winter when rooms are heated (more) and the air becomes drier as a result. The problem can be prevented very easily.

• Do not place the Dracaena directly next to a heater
• Spray the plant regularly with water
• Place a damp cloth on the heater or set up a bowl of water, alternatively use a humidifier
• pour enough

These measures are also recommended when brownish tips are already showing. In order to improve the appearance, the dried up leaf tips can be cut off.

Yellow leaves

Yellow leaves are also not uncommon on the dragon tree. There are several reasons for this. These include:

Sun

The dragon tree likes it bright, but does not tolerate blazing summer sun. In the warm seasons, the plant should therefore not stand directly at the window. However, this is possible without any problems in winter.

fertilization

Both too little and too much fertilizer can cause the leaf color to change. It can turn yellow or fade.

temperature

Very high and very low temperatures stress the plant and can turn the leaf color yellow. Sudden temperature fluctuations can also be responsible for this.

Watering

If the plant is watered too heavily, it can lead to root rot. A possible consequence of this disease is a yellowing of the leaf green. In addition, they become withered and often fall off.
If the leaves turn yellow, the conditions at the location and care should be checked. If you notice wet earth or waterlogging, you have to act quickly. A complete change of the earth is imperative. In addition, damaged, rotten areas of the roots should be removed.
In the case of over-fertilization, it is also advisable to carry out a complete soil change. In addition, the nutrient intake should be checked and adjusted.

(Natural) leaf loss

The drying up and loss of leaves in the Dracaena are not always due to diseases and poor care. Because the trunk is created by the fact that the lower leaves dry up and fall off. The loss of leaves can therefore be a completely natural phenomenon of growth.

If the location is selected appropriately, the watering takes place correctly and the dragon tree is also not exposed to temperature fluctuations, so the growth can show itself to be responsible. After it has completely dried up, it will fall off on its own. However, the leaves can also be cut off.

Cracks in the leaves

In addition to the discoloration, cracks can also appear on the leaves of the dragon tree. The cause for this lies in turn in abrupt ones Temperature fluctuations. To avoid this, the plant should be well packaged during transport and slowly accustomed to new temperatures. Sudden changes of location are to be avoided.

Culture conditions

To prevent yellow or brown leaves, the culture should be adjusted accordingly. The following factors are important:

Location

Bright but no direct summer sun is crucial for healthy growth. The location should therefore be selected appropriately. A place close to the window in a room with sufficient humidity is ideal - for example the bathroom or kitchen.

temperature

Temperatures of between 18 and 24 ° C are ideal all year round. The areas below 15 ° C and above 30 ° C are harmful. As well as abrupt changes.

Substrate

The dragon tree does not make any special demands on the substrate. Green plant or houseplant soil is sufficient. The substrate should not tend to compact and should be able to ensure good water drainage. A drainage layer can also be introduced.

to water

The pouring must be adapted. The soil should be able to dry off at least on the surface before watering again.

Fertilize

When it comes to fertilizing, less is more. During the growth phase from March to September, fertilizer can be given weekly, but the supply of additional nutrients is sufficient every two weeks. A special fertilizer for Dracaena species is ideal. Alternatively, a fertilizer for green plants can be used.