Dieffenbachia is a lush and showy plant native to the tropics of Mexico, South America and the West Indies. A large, well-grown plant can grow up to about 3 m tall, with leaves that are about 50 cm long. It is not ideal for a room with small children or pets because of its toxic sap, which causes irritation if swallowed. However, with a little caution, it does not pose a major threat. Read on to find out which Dieffenbachia care is suitable!
Adequate lighting conditions
Dieffenbachia plants are popular houseplants, primarily because they thrive in shade, but in the winter months they appreciate bright light. During the growing season, the plant prefers a shady location or indirect light.The plant prefersthe side facing the light. Therefore, rotate them regularly to keep their growth balanced.
Which soil is suitable?
These plants love a fast-draining, well-aerated potting soil. Make sure there is good drainage to avoid damaging the roots; they should never stand in soil that is too wet.
Dieffenbachia care: watering
During the growing season, dieffenbachias like regular moisture and they should not dry out. A large dieffenbachia may need watering twice a week. In winter you can reduce watering. At the same time, it is important not to overwater the plant as this can cause rotting problems. Make sure the top of the soil is completely dry before watering.
Temperature and humidity
This houseplant likes relatively warm conditions, between 18 and 24°C. At lower temperatures it is likely to lose the lower leaves and take on a palm-like appearance.
When and how to fertilize
In general, houseplants thrive when fertilized from spring to fall.Fertilizeonce a month with an organic houseplant fertilizer, following package directions for dilution and application. However, some gardeners swear by using a weakly diluted fertilizer every time they water.
How often to repot
Repotting is important for proper Dieffenbachia care. The ideal time to repot is spring or summer when the plant is at its strongest. For smaller table plants, we recommend repotting every 12-18 months. As a general rule, you should choose a container that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter to accommodate growth. Do not choose a pot that is much larger than the previous one, as this could drown the plant's roots. If you want to maintain your plant's current size, you should repot it in the same container, use new soil, and remove some roots and leaves.
For larger ground plants we recommend repotting every 18-24 months. Typically, you should choose a container that is 5-10 cm larger in diameter to accommodate growth.
Propagation of Dieffenbachia
There are three easy ways to propagate a Dieffenbachia plant.
Division by root division:
When repotting in the spring, the cuttings can be divided and planted in their own pots. Be careful not to damage the root system of the mother plant and use a sterilized tool to prevent the spread ofto avoid diseases.
Propagation of a stump:
For older, leggy dieffenbachias, the tip can be cut off and potted in fresh potting soil with a rooting hormone. New leaves then sprout from the stump. As new leaves appear, remove the older leaves.
Propagation with stick cuttings:
Pieces of pipe can be made to sprout by placing them horizontally in moist potting soil. As the pieces take root, leaves will gradually sprout. Plant each rooted piece in its own pot filled with fresh potting soil.
Common Houseplant Problems
Look for specific discolorations on the leaves so you know what to do to improve conditions.
Yellowing leaves
If you give your plant too much or too little water, the leaves may turn yellow. They often fall off the plant. Check the soil by inserting a finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If it is wet, you should not water for about a week. You may need to go a little deeper to determine if the soil is too dry, which means youneed to give the plant water. The leaves may also turn yellow because the plant lacks nutrients, such as: B. Nitrogen. Although this is difficult to diagnose, it can't hurt to use a plant fertilizer to see if the plant returns to health.
Hanging leaves
Dieffenbachia prefers partial shade. If your plant becomes limp, it could mean that it is getting too much sunlight. Place them in a location with indirect sunlight. However, if it doesn't get enough light, the leaves can turn yellow and fall off. Moving the plant to a spot with a little more light will solve this problem. The plant may be drooping because it is cold or near a draft. Keep them in an evenly warm place.
