How to Grow a Mass Cane Plant

Overview

Home gardeners often select massangeana cane, commonly known as a corn plant or mass cane, for a houseplant. In the wild, this plant grows 20 feet tall. In containers, though, its growth is a bit more restrained. The flowering mass cane makes a stunning, tall accent for a shady corner of the home. To grow a mass cane plant, water sparingly and watch for pest infestations.

Step 1

Select an area of the home for the massangeana cane free from drafts and abrupt changes in temperature. The plant prefers shady places, so if you have a dim corner, this plant will do well there.

Step 2

Plant massangeana cane in a lava-based soil that drains quickly and freely.

Step 3

Water massangeana cane sparingly. Allow it to completely dry out between waterings, and never allow it to sit in water.

Step 4

Mist the plant daily with a misting bottle.

Step 5

Fertilize the massangeana with an all-purpose, water-soluble fertilizer, monthly during the growing season. Cut back on fertilizer in winter and begin again in spring. Use the rate suggested on the fertilizer package.

Step 6

Check the plant frequently for common pests. Scale, mealybugs, and thrips can be controlled if you catch them before a major infestation takes place. Neem oil is a safe, natural insecticide that should control most of the pests on the mass cane plant.