Why Your Dragon Tree Plant Is Growing Sideways

If you have a dragon tree (Dracaena marginata) that’s growing sideways, you may wonder what’s causing the problem. This popular houseplant is easy to care for and can live for many years, but sometimes it develops a habit of leaning to one side. Here are some possible reasons why your dragon tree plant is growing sideways and what you can do about it.

Lack of Light

One of the most common reasons why a dragon tree plant leans to one side is that it’s not getting enough light. These plants prefer bright, indirect sunlight and will start to stretch out toward the light source if they don’t get enough. If your dragon tree is growing sideways, it might be trying to reach the nearest window or lamp. Try moving your plant to a brighter spot, preferably near a south-facing window.

Uneven Watering

Another reason why your dragon tree might be growing sideways is that you’re not watering it evenly. These plants like to be kept moist but not waterlogged, and they’re sensitive to fluctuations in soil moisture. If you’re giving your dragon tree too much water on one side and not enough on the other, it could cause the plant to grow unevenly. Make sure you’re watering your plant evenly and letting the soil dry out slightly between waterings.

Rootbound

If your dragon tree has been in the same pot for a long time, its roots may have become bound and unable to spread out properly. This can cause the plant to grow unevenly as it tries to find room for its roots. If you suspect this is the case, gently remove your plant from its pot and check its roots. If they’re tightly packed or circling around the bottom of the pot, it’s time to repot your dragon tree into a larger container.

Pests

Although dragon trees are generally pest-resistant, they can still be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and stems of your plant, and in severe cases, they can even cause the plant to grow unevenly. Check your dragon tree for signs of pests and treat them promptly if you find any.

Genetics

Finally, it’s worth noting that some dragon trees are simply genetically predisposed to grow sideways. This is more common in older plants that have been around for many years. If none of the other factors seem to be causing your plant to lean to one side, it might just be a natural quirk of your dragon tree.

What You Can Do About It

If your dragon tree is growing sideways, there are a few things you can do to correct the problem:

• Move your plant to a brighter spot with more indirect sunlight.
• Water your plant evenly and let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
• Repot your plant into a larger container if it’s rootbound.
• Check your plant for pests and treat them if necessary.
• Prune your plant to encourage it to grow upright.

With some care and attention, you can help your dragon tree grow straight and strong.

FAQ

Can I use stakes to prop up my leaning dragon tree?

Yes, you can use stakes or bamboo poles to support your dragon tree while it’s growing. Just be sure not to tie the plant too tightly or damage its stems.

Should I rotate my dragon tree periodically?

Yes, rotating your plant every few weeks will help it get even sunlight on all sides and prevent it from leaning too much towards one direction.

Can I prune my dragon tree to make it grow upright?

Yes, pruning your dragon tree can help redirect its growth and encourage it to grow more upright. Just be sure to use clean, sharp tools and make cuts at a 45-degree angle.