Why are the leaves falling off of my dracaena?

Question

They grow (or are sold in) stalks of 3. Earlier this year one of the stalks became very soft and all the leaves fell off. Its happening to another stalk. What can I do to save it?

Answer 1

From what you've described (stalks becoming soft, leaves dropping) is caused from one of several soil-borne diseases; pythium, phytophthora, rhizoctonia or fusarium. These diseases attack the vascular system (usually at soil level) and prevent water from moving up into the foilage. You may see blackened/watersoaked roots or dark areas in the stems when you cut across. The disease is usually spread by water but can be transmitted in other ways.

Once the plant is attacked, there's very little you can do to save it. However, you can prevent further loss by doing the following;

1) Thoroughly wash and sterilize your pots using boiling water.

2) Use a sterile potting mix

3) Place your pots on top of saucers that contains some gravel so they won't sit directly in water.....this will prevent further further infections of any diseases that may still be around

4) AND most importantly..... try to find a naturally-occuring beneficial fungus called "Trichoderma" and mix this into your potting mix. It is found in several forms called either "Rootshield" or "Plantshield". This beneficial fungus attacks and controls each of the diseases I mentioned earlier. It's extremely safe to humans and other plants. Just read the label and apply accordingly. Since it is a fungus, try not to use any fungicides otherwise you'll kill it.

It's great stuff and once you apply this...it should last forever. Also....Rootshield can also be used to protect vegetables and lawns from those diseases mentioned. I treated my lawn with it many years ago and haven't had any diseases show up since.

Hope you find this information useful. GOOD LUCK!

(Certified professional crop consultant with a degree in plant science)

Below is more info about Trichoderma;

http://www.ipmofalaska.com/files/trichoderma.html

Answer 2

It's rotting. The only chance you have to save it is to cut off the stalk to where the wood is healthy. Keep it dry, and don't water. New stalks should start to come off the base of the plant in the next growing season. Don't give up hope, it will take a while but if the stump continues to stay firm, then the new growth will come.

Answer 3

That's almost ALWAYS a problem with over-watering. Allow the soil to dry out a bit between waterings, and make sure the pot that it's in has adequate drainage. Dracenas do not like to have "wet feet" for any length of time, so if there's a saucer under the plant, be sure to empty it about an hour after you water the plant.

Answer 4

too much water! let it dry out for a month or so then water only if dry 2inches down 1 qt or less per mo. good luck