Dragon's Blood Tree

Water deeply but don't let the soil become soggy. Before watering, feel the soil to make sure it's completely dry. Water your Dragon's Blood Tree about once a week during the growing season (spring and summer). If the air is extremely warm and dry, give it extra-frequent watering. During the colder months, water it less often.

Dragon's Blood Tree will tolerate a wide range of light conditions but will prefer bright indirect sunlight. Habitual overexposure to the direct sunlight may cause the leaves to discolor. It needs to rotate every 2 weeks so that all the leaves get an equal sunlight exposure.

Dragon's Blood Tree prefers the temperature range of 65° - 80°F (18° - 26° C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50° F (10° C)for short periods of time. A sudden change in temperature should be avoided.

Dragon's Blood Tree prefers high humidity levels of around 50%. If there is a drop in humidity, mist the foliage to create and maintain the desired level. You can also use a humidifier or place the plant near other houseplants to help create a micro-environment that will keep the humidity high.

Dragon's Blood Tree prefers a soil-based potting mix with organic matter like compost and perlite for good drainage. Use a rich loamy soil with good aeration. Make sure to provide enough drainage by creating a layer of materials at the bottom of the container like rocks or gravel to allow the soil to drain properly.

Fertilize your Dragon's Blood Tree about once every two weeks in the spring and summer with an organic houseplant fertilizer. You can also use liquid seaweed extract, which can be mixed into water and applied to the soil. Avoid using too much fertilizer as this may damage roots or burn the plant's leaves.

Dragon's Blood Tree can be affected by pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale. You can use an organic insecticide to get rid of these insects. Additionally, you must regularly check the underside of the leaves for signs of an infestation and take immediate steps to control it. Neem oil is an effective natural insecticide and can be used to wipe out pests.

Dragon's Blood Tree can be repotted when the soil is loose and devoid of moisture, usually every two to three years. Repot it in a bigger container and fill it up with a soil-based potting mix. Add some organic matter like compost and perlite for good drainage. Make sure your pot has drainage holes.

Prune the Dragon's Blood Tree sparingly to keep the robust shape of the tree. Prune away any unhealthy leaves by cutting them off at their foliage nodes to enhance the overall appearance of the tree. It is best to prune off dry or dead branches to maintain the tree's health and aesthetic appeal.

It's important to mulch your Dragon's Blood Tree. Mulch is used to protect the root system, retain moisture in the soil, and discourage weeds. Use organic mulch like pine needles, straw, and grass clippings or use a layer of stones around the base of the tree.

Dragon's Blood Tree can be propagated using stem cuttings. Choose a healthy stem from the main plant and slice off a 4-6 inch section using a sterilized pair of pruning scissors. Let the cutting dry for a day and dip it into a rooting hormone to help it develop roots. Plant in a pot with a rich, loamy soil and make sure it stays moist. Place in a bright location with indirect light and mist the soil daily.

Dragon's Blood Tree needs to be supported by stakes as it grows. Use sturdy stakes like bamboo poles, wooden stakes, or even hanger wires that can be tied around the tree trunk for support.

Dragon's Blood Tree doesn't have a strict rest period, but like other plants, it will need periods of gradual rest. Reduce watering and decrease the amount of light it receives for two to three months out of the year. This will help it focus on growth instead of just maintaining its current size.

Dragon's Blood Tree is toxic to animals and humans if ingested. It can cause skin irritation if handled too often. Be sure to wash your hands after handling the plant. Keep out of reach of pets and children.