Dracaenas are a total fan favorite in the plant world. They’re famous for being low-maintenance and can grow into stunning centerpieces if you treat them right. However, they do get a little needy once the temperature drops. In this post, I’m going to walk you through exactly how to keep your Dracaena happy and healthy all winter long.
The Perfect Temperature
If you own a Dracaena, you’ve basically got a tropical roommate who hates the cold. These exotic beauties are real “frostphobes.” Their happy place is usually between 65°F and 75°F. Unless you’re lucky enough to live in the Canary Islands, you definitely can’t leave your Dracaena out on the patio year-round. Once winter hits, they absolutely need to come inside to a cozy, climate-controlled room. To give them the best shot at thriving, make sure they have high-quality soil, plenty of humidity, and aren’t overdue for a repotting.
But here’s the catch: too much heat can be just as bad. You don’t want to stick them right next to a roaring fireplace or in a south-facing window where the sun beats down all day. Your best bet is a bright spot that stays consistently warm but not scorching.
Know Your Variety
Most Dracaenas start pouting once the thermometer hits 60°F—you’ll notice the leaves drooping and the plant losing its “wow” factor. It’s always better to bring them inside before the first cold snap. The one exception is the Canary Island Dragon Tree (*Dracaena draco*), which is a bit tougher and can handle temperatures down to about 50°F.
Age also plays a role. Older plants with thick, woody trunks are a bit more resilient than youngsters. But regardless of which variety you have, remember: no Dracaena will survive a freezing winter night outdoors.
Quick Tips for Winter Success
To make sure your plant looks just as good in the spring as it does now, keep these pointers in mind:
- Bring your plant inside early. Even fall nights can get surprisingly chilly, so don’t wait for the first frost.
- Dry indoor heating is the enemy. Since the air gets super dry in the winter, give your plant a regular misting with water to keep the humidity up.
- Find a bright spot away from drafty doors or windows, and make sure it’s not sitting directly on top of a heater.
- When spring returns, don’t rush them back into the sun. Gradually acclimate them to direct sunlight so the leaves don’t burn.
The Bottom Line: Winterizing Made Easy
Getting a Dracaena through the winter isn’t rocket science—it just takes a little bit of attention. Start keeping an eye on those nighttime lows in late summer, and when in doubt, bring them in early. Your Dracaena will definitely thank you for the extra TLC!
