Root Rot

Overwatering

To address root rot in striped dracaena, first, stop watering the plant and allow the soil to dry out. If the plant is severely affected, remove it from its pot and trim away any black, mushy roots with sterilized scissors. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil and a clean pot. Ensure the pot has adequate drainage holes. Going forward, water the plant only when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, avoiding waterlogging.

Leaf tip browning

Underwatering

To address leaf tip browning caused by underwatering in striped dracaena, it's crucial to establish a consistent watering schedule. Ensure the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. Use lukewarm water to avoid shocking the plant's roots. If your home is particularly dry, consider increasing humidity around the plant with a pebble tray or humidifier. Regularly check the soil moisture levels to prevent future underwatering issues.

Spider Mite Infestation

Spider mites are tiny pests that thrive in warm, dry conditions. They feed on the sap of the striped dracaena, causing yellowing, speckled leaves, and webbing on the plant.

To combat spider mite infestations, increase humidity around your plant as these pests prefer dry conditions. Regularly misting the striped dracaena can help. Additionally, washing the leaves with a mild soap solution or using neem oil can be effective. In severe cases, applying miticides specifically designed for spider mites may be necessary. Always isolate infested plants to prevent the spread to other indoor plants.

Leaf Spot Disease

Fungal or bacterial pathogens

To manage leaf spot disease, start by removing and destroying any infected leaves to prevent the spread. Improve air circulation around your plant by spacing plants properly and avoiding overhead watering to keep the foliage dry. If the infection is severe, applying a fungicide or bactericide, as appropriate, following the manufacturer's instructions, can help control the disease. Ensure your dracaena is in well-draining soil and receives adequate light to strengthen its resistance to disease.