Yucca trees are a fantastic choice for indoor greenery, and I've found them to be quite forgiving if you get the basics right. In my experience, yuccas thrive in bright, indirect light. Ideally, you should place yours near a south or west-facing window, as they love natural sunlight but can develop leaf burn if they're in the direct line of intense rays.
When it comes to watering, yuccas prefer to stay on the dry side. Their drought-tolerant nature means they'll handle a dry spell far better than overwatering. I usually wait until the top 2 inches of the soil are dry before watering again. Be cautious of overwatering as it can lead to root rot, which is a common issue with indoor yuccas. Make sure to use a well-draining soil mix—one designed for cacti and succulents often works well. I'd add perlite or sand to improve drainage further.
Pests can be a concern, and over the years, I’ve occasionally dealt with spider mites and mealybugs. Regularly wiping down the leaves with a damp cloth and ensuring good air circulation can help prevent infestations. If you spot any pests, an insecticidal soap or neem oil usually does the trick.
An interesting point from a study I came across emphasizes the importance of humidity for indoor plants. While yuccas aren't overly fussy about humidity, they do better at typical indoor humidity levels around 40-50%. Too much moisture can actually encourage fungal diseases, another thing to watch out for.
Finally, a personal tip: every few months, rotate your yucca slightly. This ensures even growth and prevents the plant from leaning towards the light. If you're interested in more detailed care guides, I recommend checking out resources from the University of Florida's IFAS Extension, which offers great advice on plant care.
What type of light does your living room have? It might help tailor a bit more specific advice around your space!