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Dumbcane Cultivation and Care
Dieffenbachia
February 1 ,1999
I received this plant approximately 4 months ago at my grandfather's
funeral. Since that time, it has not seemed to flourish. I have
tried to water it frequently, keep in sunlight when possible and also
kept the temperature inside at approx. 65 - 75 degrees. It has begun to
thin out, droop, leaves turn brown. I do not know what to do for this
plant. Am I doing all the wrong things. I am not a plant person, but I
would really like to save this one since it was given to me in my
grandfather's memory. I would appreciate any help you can give me. I
have not changed the pot it is in. Do you think it needs to be put in a
bigger pot? Thank you for your help.
Dieffenbachias do best in bright indirect light (north or east window). Keep temperatures above 55 degrees (they will tolerate 50 degrees.) The ideal temperatures are 70 to 80 degrees during the day
and 60 to 65 at night. The soil should be allowed to become moderately dry between waterings, but then the plant should receive a thorough drenching. Established plants should be fed with every two or three weeks during the spring and summer with any all purpose house-plant fertilizer diluted to one half strength.
Root bound plants may be re potted at any season, using any good commercial potting soil. The leaves should be cleaned occasionally with a damp sponge to prevent the pores from being clogged with dust.
As the plants get larger, the lower leaves naturally wither and die, creating the 'cane', but this allows the plants energy to be diverted to the production of new top leaves. If the plant becomes to tall and leggy, it may be cut back to any height and the cut portions used for propagation.
The sap of the Dieffenbachia is extremely poisonous. Even a small amount in the mouth can cause the tongue to swell to the point that it will close your throat and cause suffocation. Wash your hands thoroughly after you have in contact with the sap!
Propagating Dieffenbachia by Air Layering
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