Recently we have noticed some damage on otherwise healthy leaves of our Dracaena Marginata which is kept in our conservatory along with other plants. None of the other plants are affected. The damage seems to be confined to the edges of the leaves and looks similar to that when a caterpillar has chewed the leaf. We've examined the plant but can't see any obvious pests. However, we have observed tiny deposits on the affected leaves which, under a magnifying glass, look like tiny bits of ground up 'vegitation' - possibly insect faeces ?? We've done lots of searching on the internet but so far have drawn a blank.... Wonder if anyone could help identify the cause and possible cure? A photograph of typical leaf damage is attached.
This, certainly, sounds and appears to be insect damage. It could be anything from caterpillars to ants, unfortunately.
There are many broad spectrum insecticides that will work for most things, as long as it is not a spider mite infestation. (It doesn't seem to be)
These articles will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/what-are-organic-pesticides.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/dracaena/dragon-tree-plant-care.htm
Is Dracaena poison to cattle please
It is quite toxic to a number of animals. It would be best to assume that it is toxic to cattle, although there is not much information available.
I took dragon tree out to repot only to realize the new pot was not deep enough so I broke up root ball and put back in original pot everyday I see more leaves turning yellow and dying Eventually I pull them off this is an inside plant Please advise
Likely, it is very stressed from the root mass being disturbed. If this was given fresh soil that has too much nutrients, then this will compound the issue. Add overwatering, which is very common with potting up to new soil, and you will likely see what you are experiencing now.
The only thing that you can do is care for the small tree, perfectly, until it has a chance to recover.
You may treat with a fungicide to prevent any issues that are likely to happen with the unfolding of events.
These articles will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/dracaena/dracaena-leaf-drop.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/dracaena/dragon-tree-plant-care.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/homemade-fungicide.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic/biofungicide-information.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm
My Heavenly Bamboo was bought in September last year and survived well in its pot over winter but in March all the leaves fell off, despite watering well. Now it's just a bunch of bare canes, but starting to show some flower growth high up although still no sign of the leaves returning even in late April. Should I cut the canes down where no sign of fruiting is evident please?
My best guess will be that it was overwatered. This will cause an infection which will result in the symptoms that you describe. I cannot confirm this, as your photo did not come through, but this is what it sounds like.
You will need to treat with a fungicide. This article will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/info/using-fungicides-in-garden.htm
Here is an article to help you to care for the plant:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/heavenly-bamboo/growing-heavenly-bamboo.htm
It is a houseplant
As a houseplant, it is unlikely to bloom for a VERY long time. The conditions have to be absolutely perfect, and the plant has to be mature enough to bloom. As a houseplant, you will likely only ever see leaves.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/dracaena/dracaena-houseplant-care.htm
I didnt know I was not to use tap water but I have since switched to distilled water with no fluoride. I have also bought a generic organic spray fertiliser. How do I save this plant? Please help. Thanks a million
Something about that soil looks off, and dry. I suspect that this has everything to do with the symptoms that you are seeing. Also, make sure to keep this out of full sun. They need dappled light, to moderate shade.
Here are some articles to help you care for the plant to its best potential:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/dracaena/dracaena-houseplant-care.htm
Thank you. I will try to save it.
We have dracaenas growing all down the side of our house. We keep them trimmed and they look great. However, we have suddenly found that the dracaenas have a profusive root system and some roots are quite thick. We are wanting to know whether these roots are invasive and could they damage a retainer wall. Thank you. Krys
If they are confined, then they can cause some damage. If they have any other direction to go, and are not confined to an area, then they won't usually cause any damage.
They don't transplant well, so doing so will result in the death of the plant.