Question
My neighbor moved this weekend leaving me on my porch a huge over 7 foot tall 'corn plant'. It is beautiful and perfect but way too big for my house. He knew I would take care of it somehow but I am at a loss as to how. I have a huge back yard with some sun, some shade, lots of sun in spots etc. Can it be planted outside? If so in what area?
Lynn
Answer
Corn Plants (Dracena) are truly tropical in origin, therefore cannot take our cold winters. However, knowing that you are in San Francisco where the winters are mild, it might survive outside as long as it was protected from the wind and covered during the rare cold snap. It should be kept out of the direct sunlight, though a little early morning sun would be fine.
If you want to bring it indoors, it can be pruned by just cutting off the main stem at the height you want it to sprout at. It will be naked for quite a while but should send out two to three new shoots. As with all plants in the house or garden, feeding monthly will be appreciated by the plant. I recommend Maxsea All Purpose Fertilizer.
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