When your corn plant is a little overgrown, restore its good looks with a quick trim.
The popular houseplant known as the corn plant (Dracaena fragransMassangeana) features long, strap-like leaves.
Although the name implies a relationship to the corn we eat, these two species are not related.
Credit: Jacob Fox
Timing and patience play into the success of corn plant propagation.
Heres what you’re gonna wanna know.
Reduce the size of your plant significantly by removing a longer piece of cane.
The leaves are essential for producing the fuel the plant needs to grow new roots.
Pot the Cutting
Make an angled cut at the rooting end of the cane.
Keep the potted cutting in a bright location but out of direct sunlight.
Care for the Potted Cutting
Check the potting medium formoisture every other day.
Water when it feels slightly dry to the touch.
Corn plant cuttings take about eight weeks to form roots.
After that time has passed, gently venture to lift the stem.
If you feel resistance, the cutting has rooted and can be replanted in a houseplant potting mix.
If the stem is wobbly when you lift it, it needs a little more time to root.
After you make the notch, prop it open with small pieces of toothpicks.
Dust the open wound with rooting powder to encourage rapid growth.
For added protection, wrap moist sphagnum moss around the cut stem and enclose the moss in clear plastic.
Keep the moss moist but not soggy until you see new roots developing.
At that time, cut off the stem just below the roots and pot up the new plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choose a location withbright, indirect light.
Although the plant tolerates low-light locations, direct sunlight can burn the tips of the corn plant leaves.
Corn plant grows best in 65% to 75% humidity.
