Note that these plants are toxic to people and pets.
Plant it in fertile, well-drained potting soil with a high peat content.
Water when the soil begins to dry out.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
As a tropical plant, dieffenbachia will do best in average room temperature and high humidity.
Don’t let the soil dry out completely.
Light
Place dieffenbachia plants in bright, indirect light.
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They will favor the side facing the light, so periodically rotate the plant to keep its growth balanced.
Soil
Use a fast-draining, well-aeratedpotting mix.
confirm drainage is good to avoid damaging the roots; they should never be left in soggy soil.
The Spruce / Krystal Slagle
A large dieffenbachia might need to be watered twice a week.
In the winter, it’s possible for you to cut back on the water.
At the same time, it’s important not to overwater a dieffenbachia, which can cause rot problems.
double-check the top of the soil is fully dried out before watering.
Keep the Soil Moist
Determining exactly when to water dieffenbachias can be tricky.
Use amoisture meterto evaluate the soil, and water just before it becomes dry.
This will provide consistent moisture without flooding the roots.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant likes fairly warm conditions, from 65F to 75F.
The plant appreciates high humidity, but average household humidity should be fine.
For the amount to use, follow product label instructions.
However, some growers swear by a routine of using a weak diluted fertilizer at every watering.
oerstedii, D. maculata,andD.
amoena.Further, cultivars are available of these species.
you’re free to also removedead, yellowing leavesfrom the bottom, if desired.
Pruning Tip
Looking for the best pruners for your dieffenbachia plant?
We tested10 top-rated prunersin our Lab to confirm your plant stays happy and healthy.
Propagating Dieffenbachia
Dieffenbachia is easy to propagate.
The best methods are via root division, from a stump, and from cane cuttings.
After repotting a dieffenbachia, give it some time to adjust to its new setting.
Wear gloves to avoid contact with the sap.
Water the plant once a week as it won’t need as much water as in the summertime.
These pests can be treated with a horticultural oil along with added humidity.
Watch for certain colorations on the leaves to let you know what to do to amend conditions.
Yellowing or Browning Leaves
Overwatering or underwatering your plant can turn the leaves yellow and then brown.
Often, they will also fall off the plant.
Check the soil by sticking a finger into the soil up to the first knuckle.
If it’s wet, hold off on watering for a week or so.
Leaves could also turn yellow because the plant is lacking nutrients, such as nitrogen.
Drooping Leaves
Dieffenbachia prefers partial shade.
If your plant droops, it may mean it’s getting too much sunlight.
Move the plant to a spot with indirect sunlight.
However, if it’s not getting enough light, the leaves may turn yellow and droop.
Move it to an area with a bit more light to alleviate this problem.
The plant may droop because it is cold or near a draft.
Keep your plant in a consistently warm area that’s between 65 degrees to 75 degrees.
The best place to put a dieffenbachia indoors is in an east- or west-facing window.
Dieffenbachia plants like bright, indirect light.
Overwatered dieffenbachia will have yellow leaves that fall off and may have a slimy residue near the base.
The stem could even be soft and squishy, in cases of severe overwatering.
Dieffenbachia is highly toxic when ingested by humans and animals, including dogs, cats, and livestock.
Yes, dieffenbachia is a great houseplant.
It’s low maintenance and adaptable to various lighting conditions.
It’s available in many varieties and cultivars.
Dieffenbachia sequine.North Carolina State Extension.
