The Dragon Tree (Dracaena) is a total classic when it comes to houseplants. As long as the temperature stays steady, it’s usually a “set it and forget it” kind of plant. But if you’re like most plant parents, you’ve probably wondered: *Can I move my Dragon Tree out to the balcony for the summer?*
In this post, we’re going to dive into everything you need to know about giving your Dracaena some fresh air without accidentally stressing it out.
The Big Questions
Before you move your leafy friend outside, there are three main things we need to cover:
- What’s the “danger zone” temperature for a Dragon Tree?
- How do you pick the perfect spot on your balcony?
- Do you need to acclimate the plant to the sun first? (Spoiler: Yes!)
When does it get too cold?
While the Dragon Tree is a rockstar indoors, it’s a total wimp when it comes to frost. These plants originally hail from mild climates like the Canary Islands, so they aren’t built for the chill.
The specific variety you have matters. For example, the *Dracaena draco* (Canary Island Dragon Tree) can handle dips down to about 50°F (10°C). However, most other common varieties will start looking pretty unhappy once the thermometer drops below 65°F (18°C).
As Dragon Trees get older, they do get a little tougher, but let’s be clear: even a “tough” old plant won’t survive a freezing winter night. The Dragon Tree is not winter-hardy. If you want to keep your plant happy for years to come, you absolutely have to bring it back inside before the cold hits.
Finding the perfect balcony spot
If you decide to give your plant a summer vacation outdoors, you can’t just plop it down anywhere.
After spending all winter inside, your Dragon Tree needs a slow introduction to the sun. Even though they have tropical roots, they actually hate direct, scorching sunlight—it can literally sunburn their leaves! Your best bet is a shady spot with plenty of bright, indirect light.
You also want to protect it from wind and heavy rain. A sheltered, dry corner on your porch or balcony is ideal. A sudden summer thunderstorm can be rough on these plants; if they get too soggy, they become magnets for fungal infections.
Pro tip: Keep an eye on the weather app. Summer and autumn nights can get surprisingly chilly. When in doubt, bring your plant back into the warmth of your living room for the night.
The Bottom Line: Is it worth the effort?
Growing a Dragon Tree on a balcony takes a bit more “babysitting” than keeping it in your bedroom. But if you put in the work and give it those perfect outdoor conditions, you might just get lucky and see a rare Dragon Tree bloom. Trust me, it’s worth the extra care!
