A Dragon Tree (Dracaena) is a total game-changer for any room—it looks amazing and is surprisingly low-maintenance. That said, you still need to be picky about where you park it in your home. Picking the right spot is the secret sauce to keeping your plant healthy and happy.
Four Things to Keep in Mind
Meeting a Dragon Tree’s needs is pretty straightforward, but it’s easy to make a few common mistakes if you aren’t paying attention to your home’s environment. When you’re scouting for the perfect spot, keep these four things on your radar:
- The right temperature
- Proper lighting
- Ideal humidity levels
- Protection from drafts
Finding the Sweet Spot
Dragon Trees love consistency. They thrive when the temperature stays between 65°F and 77°F all year round. They also have a thing for high humidity. Since our homes can get a bit dry (especially in the winter), I recommend giving your Dragon Tree a regular misting with water. This keeps the plant hydrated and, as a bonus, helps prevent mold spores from moving in. Also, make sure your leafy friend isn’t sitting in a drafty hallway or near a leaky window.
When it comes to light, you want a bright spot, but definitely avoid direct sunlight or placing it right next to a heater. A south-facing window is usually a no-go because it’s just too intense. While these plants can handle a shadier corner for a while, they will always try to “reach” for the light. If you don’t want your tree growing crooked, make sure to rotate the pot every now and then. Finding the right balance is key!
Can It Live on the Patio?
You can absolutely move your Dragon Tree outside to the balcony or patio, provided you follow the same rules mentioned above. Just remember: this is strictly a summer vacation. Those chilly nights can really do a number on your plant. Also, don’t just shock it by moving it from a dark living room into the bright sun on the first warm day. Let it acclimate slowly so the leaves don’t get scorched.
The Bottom Line: It’s Easier Than You Think
Finding a home for your Dragon Tree shouldn’t take much time at all. Just use the points in this post as a quick checklist. If you nail the environment, your Dragon Tree will reward you by growing into a stunning centerpiece for your home.
