The Dieffenbachia houseplant features large, bright green leaves and is a favorite among plant owners. The Dieffenbachia is such a popular houseplant because it is easy to take care of for any plant owner.
However, this plant still requires some knowledge to keep it thriving around the office or at home. Here’s how to do it.
Other Names
- Peace lily
- Dumb cane
- Dieffenbachia Amoena
What Soil Works Best for Dieffenbachia Plants?
You don’t need a unique, expensive potting mix or overly elaborate plant food. Just give it some high-quality potting soil mix.
How Much Sun Does a Dieffenbachia Plant Need?
Dieffenbachia plants grow best with filtered light, such as through a window with drapes. So, put your plant somewhere with bright, indirect sunlight, and watch it thrive.
If you notice its leaves getting droopy, it may signify that you want to increase light levels. Generally, the leaves should be bright green but not yellow, and dark green may indicate your plant is in excellent health.
What Temperature Works Best for Dieffenbachia Plants?
Dieffenbachia plants grow best at temperatures between 65- and 75-degrees Fahrenheit. That means that they thrive in average household temperatures.
Dieffenbachia plants do not like cold temperatures and will not survive in cold climates. Therefore, always keep them in a temperature-controlled room that stays about 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do Dieffenbachia Plants Enjoy Humidity?
Yes, Dieffenbachia plants enjoy humidity. That is because they originate from humid, tropical environments. It might be a smart investment to place a humidifier with your Dieffenbachia plant in the room. Creating an appropriate environment that simulates the tropics can do the plant well.
Another way to increase the humidity around the plant is to put it in a bathroom with a shower. Running a hot shower will create a humid-like environment, which the plant will enjoy.
How Often Should You Water a Dieffenbachia Plant?
While Dieffenbachia plants thrive in humidity, they don’t need a lot of water. So be careful not to overwater your Dieffenbachia plant.
Here’s a good rule of thumb (literally): stick your fingertip into the soil. If the first inch of soil is dry, it is time for water. These plants are ready to handle a wide variety of water availability conditions. Remember that Dieffenbachia plants can tolerate drought conditions better than you might imagine. But consistent overwatering can be very bad for it.
Overwatering will not spur new growth, either. For that, it’s better to fertilize the soil with a houseplant fertilizer. Experiment a little to see what gives you the best response.
What Size Does Dieffenbachia Plants Grow to Typically?
Dieffenbachia plants tend to grow between three and five feet tall indoors. They do not grow super fast. But given a lot of sunlight, they will grow more quickly.
Most Common Bugs on a Dieffenbachia Plant
Dieffenbachia plants originate from places of high humidity where pest infestation is frequently a problem. That means they often struggle with pests such as aphids, spider mites, mealybugs, and more.
Regularly inspect the leaves of your plants for signs of pest activity. Gently wash the leaves with insecticidal soap to remove any infestations.
Most Common Diseases
One of their most common diseases is yellowing leaves. The leaves may also become limp and floppy. Typically, it is a sign that the soil is overwatered, and you need to intervene immediately.
Consider repotting the plant in new soil. You may also move the plant out of bright light if it’s had too much direct exposure. Or, if you think it might not have enough light, move it somewhere closer to the sun, where it will receive more light.
How Often Should You Repot Dieffenbachia Plants?
Since they can grow a lot, Dieffenbachia plants need repotting every one to two years. It is best to repot your plant during the springtime. Choose a pot that is a few inches larger than the previous pot.
How Do You Propagate Dieffenbachia Plants?
You can propagate new Dieffenbachia plants by taking stem cuttings and planting them in rooting mediums. Some people recommend using rooting hormone for plants for propagation, but make sure that you check on your specific plant for recommendations.
Regular pruning is also a good idea because these leaves can grow long and unruly. Discard your leaves after pruning or use them for propagation.
Are Dieffenbachia Plants Toxic?
Dieffenbachia plants contain calcium oxalate, which is toxic when ingested. Keep these plants away from small children and pets. To be safe, always wear gloves when pruning or handling the plant. Treat it as a decorative plant—and not a plant that your cat should be playing within your home.
Conclusion — How to Take Care of a Dieffenbachia Plant
When treated right, the Dieffenbachia will look beautiful in your home. But you do have to invest a little into learning how to handle this plant properly. Be sure to give it all of the light and water it needs, repot it annually, and keep it away from pets and children.
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