Also known as Dracaena trifasciataThe George’s sword has become a staple member of any indoor seedling collection. Even if you are a beginner, this green and spiky species will make a great addition to your home.
She is very happy in warm and sunny climates, because she originated in the rainforests of West Africa. Despite belonging to the Asparagaceae family, along with asparagus, do not try to bite a leaf, as they are toxic.
Some of the types are hahnii, laurentii – made the NASA list of air purifying plants -, compact, trifasciata, goldiana and silbersee. They each have similar needs but differ slightly in color, shape and size – they range from 8 inches to 6 feet or more.
Before growing at home, there are a few things you should consider:
what you must have
Have a pot of terracotta with drainage – this material is the most suitable because it absorbs moisture quickly, preventing excess water from accumulating in the soil – and a saucer at hand. Make sure you have the right soil and tools.
Make a good space to position the vase, your ideal size will depend on the size of the branch, but choose one that is larger than the original container. In the store, select a seedling with dark green leaves – this is a sign that it is healthy.
Ground
The best type of soil to use is a free-draining mix. But you can also opt for substrate for cacti, as they generally drain well and prevent excess moisture from accumulating. Adding sand, perlite, or peat moss is also beneficial.
Light
Saint George’s swords do well in different environments, including direct sun and low light. However, indirect sunlight is preferred.
This hardy species can thrive in any room with almost any type of lighting. But since they act as air fresheners, they make a great addition to a bedroom or home office.
watering
Simply put, your branch don’t need a lot of water. Water every two to eight weeks, only if the top two to three inches of soil has completely dried out since the last watering. This will depend on the humidity in your home and the time of year.
If you overwater, the roots may start to rot – an indication of this is if you notice that the leaves are falling off. Also, do not spray the seedling, which has foliage that likes to stay dry.
Food
You can fertilize with a compost mix or a simple houseplant fertilizer, both work well, but avoid applying too much. Since compost tends to store water, it can overhydrate the branch. Do this once or twice in the warmer spring and summer months.
See too
pruning
the species does not require pruning, but if you notice that some of the outer leaves have started to droop or droop, you can pull them off. Simply cut a straight line across the bottom of the leaf at the ground line and save it as it is a great candidate for propagation.
Propagation
St George’s sword leaf propagation is an excellent option if they have started to fall off or move away from the rest of the seedling. As it develops more in the warmer months, this is the ideal time for propagation.
Follow the instructions below for successful work:
Use sharp pruners to cut a straight line across the base of the leaf you wish to propagate, at the soil line. Cut 15 to 18 cm from the bottom to remove the weak piece. Wait anywhere from two days to a week before propagating the leaf, as it contains a significant amount of moisture, putting it back in the pot could cause it to rot.
Alternatively, you can insert it into a new container on its own and tie the leaf to a stake so it stays upright while it takes root. You can also split the branch into sections if you want to put them in separate pots. Do this using scissors, ensuring there are at least three rhizomes and a healthy leaf on each piece.
replanting
Although the type likes a crowded root system, it will eventually need to be transferred. If roots have started to grow through the container’s drain hole, it’s time to replant. Here are some things to keep in mind at the time:
Repot in winter or early spring and it is best to do this when it is not actively growing. If you turn the seedling over and it doesn’t come out of the ground, it’s time to transfer it.
Use a pot that is an inch or two larger than your current pot – or, if you are much taller, consider transporting to a larger one, ensuring it is not too top heavy.
The work requires care not to damage the root, remove it from the container and place it gently in the new one. If you find a place where root rot has formed, gently cut them off with a sharp knife.
This process should not be carried out frequently, between three to six years.
Diseases and pests
As you may have noticed, the most common problem with the species is root rot. To avoid this, simply remember not to overwater.
Whenever possible, avoid exposing the vase to temperature extremes or variations. Insect infestation, such as weevils or cochineal scale, are also possible. If this happens, remove the infected leaf, larvae, and mulch or affected soil.
Fungus, such as red leaf spot, can be a result of overwatering. If you notice it, reduce watering, try to treat the soil with heat and cut off all dead leaves.
toxicity
All parts of the species are toxic to humans and pets if ingested. It may cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea if any part is consumed. Always keep it out of reach of your children and furry friends, including dogs, cats and rabbits.
*Via Petal Republic