Finding and Caring for Dragon Tree Houseplants for Sale

With their striking tropical look dragon trees make excellent houseplants to add drama and interest to any indoor space. Here is some key information on finding dragon trees for sale and properly caring for them once you bring one home.

What is a Dragon Tree Houseplant?

Dragon trees, also known by their scientific name Dracaena marginata, are a popular variety of houseplant native to Madagascar. Some key features that make them stand out:

• Long, slender leaves that emerge in rosettes from woody stems. The leaves can be solid green or have red/pink edges.

• As plants mature, they develop tree-like bases and can resemble palms or mini palm trees.

• Slow growing but can reach up to 6-10 feet tall indoors. The slender trunks lend a tree-like quality.

• Tolerant of a variety of conditions like low light and drought. Great for beginner gardeners

• Add a tropical architectural element to indoor spaces.

Where to Find Dragon Trees for Sale

Dragon trees have become a staple houseplant sold at many major retailers. Here are some places where you can find them for sale:

• Online plant nurseries – A wide selection of sizes and varieties. Often cheaper than big box stores.

• Local garden centers – Look for healthy plants and examine closely for pests/disease.

• Big box stores – Home Depot, Lowe’s, Walmart etc. often stock them seasonally.

• Florists or plant shops – May offer more unique or mature specimens.

• Local plant swaps/sales – Get discounted plants or cuttings to propagate.

• Online marketplaces – eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist etc. Allow inspection before purchasing.

How to Select a Healthy Dragon Tree

When buying a dragon tree, look for these signs of good health:

• Leaves are intact, not yellowed or browning. No signs of leaf spots or lesions.

• Stems and trunk are sturdy. No signs of rot or damage.

• Soil should be slightly moist but not waterlogged. Roots are not exposed.

• Plant should stand upright in the pot without leaning or drooping.

• No signs of pests like spider mites or scale insects.

• Choose plants with established trunks and mature heights if you want an instant tree look.

ideal Growing conditions for Dragon Trees

Dragon trees are quite adaptable houseplants, but provide these conditions for optimal growth:

• Bright indirect light or partial sun. Avoid direct hot sunlight.

• Average room temperatures between 65-80°F. Keep away from drafty areas.

• Moderate humidity. Mist leaves occasionally or use a pebble tray.

• Well-draining potting soil. Allow to partially dry between waterings.

• Occasional fertilizing in the spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

• Prune back dead leaves or excessive growth. Trim the trunk for a tree shape.

How to Plant and Pot a Dragon Tree

Follow these tips when potting or repotting a dragon tree:

• Use a potting mix for indoor plants with good drainage. Add perlite or bark chips for more porosity.

• Select a container with drainage holes that is only slightly bigger than the root ball.

• Carefully remove the plant from its nursery pot and loosen the roots. Place in the new pot.

• Fill the pot with soil mix. Make sure the base of the trunk sits at soil level.

• Water thoroughly after potting to settle the soil. Allow soil to dry out before more watering.

• As plants grow, repot every 2-3 years into slightly larger containers.

Common Issues with Dragon Trees

Dragon trees are quite resilient, but watch for these potential problems:

• Root rot from overwatering – Allow soil to dry between waterings.

• Leaf scorching from too much sun – Move to a shadier spot.

• Leaf browning from low humidity – Mist leaves regularly.

• Leaf drop from under or over-watering – Adjust watering frequency.

• Slow growth from low light – Place in a brighter location if possible.

• Leaning or drooping from lack of root support – Repot in larger container.

• Pests like scale, mealybugs, or spider mites – Wipe off with cotton swab dipped in alcohol or use neem oil.

With proper selection, care, and maintenance, dragon tree houseplants can thrive for years, adding a vibrant, tropical feel with their unusual branching form and arching leaves. Their resilience to varied conditions makes them a top choice for homeowners seeking an easy yet statement-making plant.