Corn Plant

Corn Plant: A Reliable Tall Floor Plant for Low to Medium Light

One of my favorite houseplants is my corn plant (Dracaena fragrans `Massangeana’). I got it when I moved into my home in the 1980s, and at the time, it stood just a foot high. Today, it stands 10 feet tall, nearly touching the ceiling—creating an impressive focal point in my living room. Its shiny, sword-shaped green-and-yellow-striped leaves look great in just about any interior. This plant may seem challenging to grow, but it thrives indoors. Keep the following growing tips in mind.

Be Patient

Corn plant is a slow grower. If you want a larger specimen, you’ll have to pay for it. Depending on the size of the plant, it can range from $30 to $200. Considering the cost of the plant, use caution when transporting. Lay it on its side for transporting and never grasp it by its trunk, which can break off roots. Always lift the plant by the container. Move it in an enclosed vehicle.

Watering

Water when the soil surface dries. Also, keep in mind that tall floor plants tend to be cumbersome to move for watering. If you’ll be watering the plant in place, make sure that you have protected the flooring properly with saucers, and never leave the plant sitting in water, as this can lead to root rot. If possible, every six months, move the plant outdoors or to the bathtub and leach the soil to remove salt build-up. Fall and spring are good times to do this.

Lighting

Corn plants don’t need a lot of bright light. They do best in medium light. An eastern exposure where they get some morning sun works well.

Fertilize

Feed your corn plant with a well-balanced organic food in spring and fall.

Brown Leaf Tips?

Corn plants are notorious for developing brown leaf tips, which can be caused by uneven watering or low humidity. Brown leaf tips can be cut off.

Corn Plant Too Tall?

When your plant becomes too tall for its space, it’s time to air-layer. This refers to the process of partially cutting the trunk to create a new plant and then removing the new plant, which can then be planted in the same pot. Click here for more info on propagating.

By following these tips, you can ensure your corn plant remains a stunning and healthy addition to your home.