How to Grow Dragon Fingers Plant Indoors

If you are looking for an exotic and low-maintenance plant to add to your home, the Dragon Fingers plant is a great choice. This unique plant is also known as the Dwarf Schefflera and has been a popular houseplant for years due to its attractive foliage. It is native to Taiwan and is commonly used in bonsai trees. In this article, we will guide you on how to grow Dragon Fingers plant indoors.

Planting

The first step is to choose the right pot for your plant. Dragon Fingers plants require a pot that has good drainage holes and is about 2-3 inches larger than the root ball. Fill the pot with well-draining soil mix, and plant the Dragon Fingers plant in the center of the pot, making sure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.

Watering

Dragon Fingers plants require moderate watering. The soil should be kept slightly moist, but not soaking wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot and can be fatal for your plant. You can check if it’s time to water by sticking your finger into the soil up to your second knuckle. If it feels dry, then it’s time to water.

Light

The Dragon Fingers plant prefers bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch its leaves. Place your plant near a window that receives bright, indirect light for at least 6 hours a day.

Temperature and Humidity

The ideal temperature for Dragon Fingers plants is between 60-85°F (15-29°C). They can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but cannot survive in freezing temperatures. They also prefer moderate humidity levels, so it’s best to mist them regularly or place them near a humidifier.

Fertilizer

Dragon Fingers plants do not require frequent fertilization. You can feed them with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season, which is from spring to fall.

Pruning

Pruning is not necessary for Dragon Fingers plants, but you can shape them if you want to. You can also remove any yellow or dead leaves to promote new growth.

Common Problems

Like any other plant, Dragon Fingers plants are susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common problems and how to solve them:

• Yellow leaves: This could be a sign of overwatering, poor drainage or lack of sunlight. Adjust the watering schedule or move the plant to a brighter spot.

• Brown tips: This is usually caused by low humidity levels or too much fertilizer. Increase the humidity or reduce the frequency of fertilization.

• Pests: Spider mites and scale insects can infest Dragon Fingers plants. You can use insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them.

FAQ

How often should I water my Dragon Fingers plant?

Water your plant when the soil feels dry up to your second knuckle.

Can I place my Dragon Fingers plant outdoors?

Yes, but it’s best to keep them in a shaded area as direct sunlight can scorch their leaves.

How tall do Dragon Fingers plants grow?

They can grow up to 4-6 feet tall but can be maintained at a smaller size with pruning.

In conclusion, growing Dragon Fingers plants indoors is easy and requires minimal maintenance. With proper care, your plant will thrive and add an exotic touch to your home.