Dracaena grows better in soil, but it often is sold with the roots in water. The water should be completely changed every two weeks. The water should be bottled water, soft tap water with very little fluoride, or even water from a filtered, established aquarium.

Yellow or brown Dracaena leaf edges may be caused by too much direct light, crowded roots, or fluoridated or chlorinated water. The problem with water can be prevented by leaving tap water exposed to the air for a day before plant use. Salty or softened water can also cause this.

Twisted Dracaena shapes can be produced by rotating the plant with respect to gravity and directed light sources. This is difficult to achieve for most home users, but not impossible with a lot of spare time and a lot of patience.