So, I've just bought myself a Yucca and two Dracaenae (1 Fragrans & 1 Fragrans 'Massangeana') and I need a little advice. Please note that I intend to leave these plant outside, not indoors. I'm by the coast in Sydney, so the climate is warm enough for them outside (I think)?

I was told that I need to water the Dracaenae (about 4ft tall) with 9 litres every 2 days. Now, after putting 3 litres into the pot, a fair percentage drains out the bottom. Common sense would indicate that putting any more in would seem to be a waste. A bit of web research indicated that they should be watered until water comes out the bottom of the pot, and only when the top of the soil is dry. Is this right? Also, since they're outside in summer, the top of the soil will dry out quicker than if they were indoors, but 3-4cm below is still quite moist. Should I still go on how dry the top is?

Secondly, I read that Dracaenae don't like flouride. Flouride is added to the tap water in Sydney to a level of 1mg/L. Is that enough to be harmful and if so, how can I counteract that?

Now, to the Yucca (about 4ft tall). My understanding is that this is a real drough plant and can handle only being watered once a month. Is this correct? What would be a good rule of thumb for a plant situated in the sun?

Finally, I had a look for suitable books in Dymocks today and didn't really see any. Could anyone recommend a book along the lines of "Balcony gardening for dummies"?

thanks,
donncha

Pity I didn't have a copy when I had a 3rd floor, west facing balcony in Sydney. Even the garden gnome died of thirst! I put it all down to gravity and the scientific need for the water to reach ground level.

I'm certainly no balcony gardening expert but I would recommend pot plant saucers, water holding crystals in your potting mix, and mulch.

The precise recommended water "dosage" might be a bit difficult to adhere to. The requirements of the Dracaenae are going to depend on what it uses up itself and how much evaporates - and this depends on growth, daily climatic conditions, etc. Also depends on the type of pot - eg, terracotta which allows water to evaporate through the sides. I'd aim to keep the potting mix moist and, yes, check the moisture beneath the top of the mix. The Dracaenae would also probably appreciate regular spraying of their foliage - pick up a cheap spray bottle from your local dollar shop.

The yucca, a desert dweller, is incredibly drought hardy and would need very little water. The problem is that once pot plants dry out, they can be extremely difficult to "wet". I'd water more often than once per month, but only use small amounts of water.

If your pots do dry out completely, water them by immersing the whole pot in a larger container of water (laundry tub if your pots are large) and leave to soak for a couple of hours.

Another observation - balcony plants seem to be happier in the close company of friends. Position your pots in a group.