The maize plant (Dracaena fragrans) is a tropical African perennial shrub with a sweet aroma which has been renowned as an indoor plant in Europe since the mid-nineteenth century and in the United States since about the early twentieth century. Long, slender stalks of corn-like leaves form the basis of their growth, which is gradual yet steady. They are often referred to as “fake palms” because of their resemblance to palm trees.
As a result of their height and narrowness, they are ideal houseplants, often growing just 4- to 6-feet tall in pots. Once you’ve established the proper circumstances for these plants to thrive, they won’t need much attention. New plants may be started throughout spring, although you can usually grow nursery plants inside year-round. Dracaena is toxic to pets, hence if you own few pets, don’t let it near the plant.
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Corn Plant Care
Since they are tropical plants that need temperature management, home gardeners often grow corn plants in huge pots inside. The ideal place to grow corn indoors is in a sunny, well-ventilated area that is sheltered from direct sunlight, drafts, and heating and air conditioning vents. In addition, high humidity is preferred by these plants.
Corn plants may be left outside in the summer provided they are protected and somewhat shaded. Make sure they’re safe from heavy winds. When the weather dips under 60 ℉, the plants must be taken indoors.
Light
Ideally, this plant should be placed near a window that receives filtered sunshine. The plant’s development may be hindered if the leaves lose their color variation due to a lack of light. Direct sunlight may burn and wilt the plant’s leaves. Shaded areas are preferable for the plant to thrive in the outdoors.
Soil
Corn plants should be grown in a loose, loamy potting soil mix. Make sure the soil is well-drained, since the roots of this plant do not thrive in waterlogged conditions.
Water
Growers should keep the soil uniformly wet, but not waterlogged, during the growth season (spring through fall). During the autumn and winter months, water less often. The soil should, however, never be allowed to totally dry out. Plants will suffer if the soil is excessively moist or too dry.
Humidity and Temperature
Conditions around 60 to 70 ° F are ideal for corn plants. Ensure that they are not exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees F. When temps hit this degree, bring your corn plants inside if you’ve taken them outside for the season.
It is important to keep humidity levels between 40 and 50 percent, which is the plant’s natural habitat. Use a humidifier or set the pot in a tray of water and stones to increase the plant’s humidity. Keep the pot’s bottom away from the water. The leaves may also be misted on a regular basis.
Fertilizer
Organically rich soil is preferred by corn plants. Every two months throughout the growth season and very sparingly, if at all, during the winter are ideal times to apply balanced liquid fertilizer to your plants.
Pruning
As a leaf’s normal lifetime approaches two to three years, the corn plant’s lower leaves will begin to turn yellow. Remove the fading leaves as soon as possible. Incision the canes at the tops if the plant has grown too large for your area; fresh leaf buds will sprout around the cut.
Conclusion
Corn is an easy plant to cultivate and care for. Like Snake Plant, this plant can withstand neglect, poor light, and even under-watering in the same way. As long as you give it the attention it needs, this plant is sure to flourish for years to come. If the circumstances are ideal, some older plants may even produce a sprinkling of fragrant, white, pink, or purple blooms.
Corn Plant is generally referred to as an amazing indoor tree that thrives in low light because of its unique growth pattern. It’s also a good choice for allergy sufferers because of its ability to remove pollutants from the air.