Caring for Dieffenbachia at home - why the leaves turn yellow

Dieffenbachia diseases: how to help a tropical beauty

Fans of lush indoor plants often admire the Dieffenbachia, a guest of their rainforests in America.
This cute flower can grow up to 2 meters in height, decorating a living space. Wide green leaf plates are decorated with variegated patterns, from which it is impossible to take your eyes off. They amaze the imagination, but unfortunately, various Dieffenbachia diseases bring a lot of grief to their masters. Reasonable care of the plant contributes to the successful development of Dieffenbachia, as a result of which new leaves regularly appear on it. What to do if a tropical beauty gets sick? How to help a silent “household member”? First of all, it is important to gain knowledge, and only then take action.

According to experts, Dieffenbachia is considered a poisonous plant. When it comes into contact with a mucous part of the body, its juice causes irritation and even allergies. It is especially dangerous for children.

Types and varieties

The most common cultivated species are spotted Dieffenbachia (Dieffenbachia maculata) and variegated or painted Dieffenbachia (Dieffenbachia picta) - plants with large succulent stems and elongated oval leaf plates with obvious venation, reaching a width of 12 cm and a length of up to half a meter. Their bright green leaves are dotted with white spots and stripes. They differ from each other in that variegated Dieffenbachia grows up to two meters in height, and spotted Dieffenbachia does not exceed a meter, but its leaves are slightly larger in size and they are more pointed at the top. It was Dieffenbachia spotted that became the basis for most varieties and hybrids bred by breeders.

Here are some of the most popular cultivated varieties of Dieffenbachia spotted:

• Vesuvio variety is an elegant medium-sized plant with narrow, delicate white leaves and green specks on white petioles;
• Dieffenbachia Camilla is one of the hardiest bushy varieties, which is why it has earned popularity among amateurs. Lanceolate, creamy-white leaves are edged with a light green rim. Young leaves have a greenish tint;
• Dieffenbachia Compacta is a neat, dense bush with green leaves with light specks along the central vein.

Dieffenbachia leopoldii

A low-growing plant native to Costa Rica with a short and thick stem, pale green short petioles with purple spots and dark green elliptical leaves up to 35 cm long with a pronounced white central vein.

Dieffenbachia amoena

Flower lovers like it for its unpretentiousness and excellent adaptability to home conditions, since it tolerates dry air and the proximity of heating devices better than other types. In addition, its decorative qualities are beyond any criticism: height up to one and a half meters, large dark green oval leaves up to 60 cm long with white stripes along all veins.

Dieffenbachia seguina

Which amateurs often confuse with Dieffenbachia spotted, has wider – up to 16 cm – leaves with fewer lateral veins than Dieffenbachia spotted. This species has also produced many varieties and hybrids, for example, “Tropic Snow” - a never-out-of-fashion cultivar with a regular pattern on the leaves formed by yellow spots, while the central vein and edges of the leaves remain dark green.

Dieffenbachia oerstedii

A species with solid green, heart-shaped or pointed leaves with a distinct light-colored midrib. The length of the leaves is 30-35 cm. The most famous hybrid of this species is “Green Magic”, a dense bush of small size with unusually colored leaves: they are dark bluish-green with a white central vein. There is a form with small light specks along the leaf blade.

Dieffenbachia macrophylla

The only species with uniformly green leaves and veins, the shape of the leaf blade is ovoid, the midrib is thickened. This species grows up to one meter in height.

Dieffenbachia diseases: general information

Quite often, lovers of indoor flowers notice how the leaves of a tropical beauty turn yellow.
The first thing that comes to mind is improper care. But this happens even to the most dedicated gardeners. Dieffenbachia diseases occur for various reasons, the main thing is to start treatment on time. Another problem with the plant is the drying and falling of the lower leaf plates. Since they are the main decoration of the flower, it is not very pleasant to see their loss. In some cases, the cause is the natural process of plant development, which even the most competent gardener cannot stop. But if young plates fall off, it is worth thinking about possible Dieffenbachia disease and methods of timely treatment.

It is quite an unpleasant sight when a beloved flower drops its once lush leaves and takes on a pitiful appearance. Dieffenbachia withers for various reasons, but this appearance is a signal to action. In addition, brown spots, drops of unknown origin, or even leaves that do not open may appear on the plant. Let us consider in detail the possible causes and methods of treating Dieffenbachia diseases.

If there are small children living in the house, you can have an exotic flower in the office. Such a cute “neighbor” will decorate the room with lush greenery and will always be a reason for joy.

Content Features

The homeland of Dieffenbachia is the humid tropics, so the plant makes a number of serious demands on its maintenance in the house. Any gardener needs to understand that Dieffenbachia leaves can turn yellow due to insufficient light levels, low temperatures, as well as the wrong choice of soil mixture and non-compliance with the watering regime.

Lighting

Dieffenbachia prefers illuminated places; its full growth and development requires at least 10-12 hours of daylight per day, which is why from November to February the plant requires additional illumination using phytolamps.

To correct the situation, it is necessary to cut off all yellowed leaves - they will never be able to recover in the future, so you need to get rid of them. Then the plant is moved to another, more suitable place on windows located on the south or east side - believe me, Dieffenbachia will very quickly give new leaves and will delight you with its bright, vibrant color for a long time.

Watering

One of the most common causes of yellow leaves is overwatering of Dieffenbachia. The plant does not tolerate excessive watering - this causes aeration problems, and as a result, the roots begin to rot. As a result, the plant does not receive enough nutrients that it needs for efficient photosynthesis and, accordingly, rich green foliage. Along with the appearance of yellowness, blackening of the roots is observed, the surface of the earth becomes quite slimy, greenish in color, and a sharp unpleasant odor appears when watering.

Unfortunately, in most cases, yellowing of leaves is accompanied by numerous fungal infections. Such a plant urgently needs to be saved, because if measures are not taken in time, then Dieffenbachia is doomed to death. To begin with, the flower should be transplanted into another container and the soil mixture should be changed, while all damaged roots should be cut off.

The opposite situation, when watering is insufficient, is no less dangerous for the plant. Overdrying of the soil also causes yellowness on the foliage and ultimately leads to the death of the flower. Do not allow the soil to dry out, water the flower as needed - when the soil dries, 2-3 centimeters deep.

Another common mistake novice gardeners make is using hard water to moisten the soil; this often leads to chlorosis of the leaves - they first turn pale, then turn yellow and begin to fall off.

Soil and fertilizers

If the lower leaves of Dieffenbachia begin to turn yellow, the reason in most cases lies in the wrong choice of substrate and the lack of necessary fertilizing. This tropical plant prefers breathable soils with low acidity. Dieffenbachia responds well to humic acids, but if the soil is chosen incorrectly, the root system will not be able to cope with providing the leaves with nutrients. Dieffenbachia immediately responds to this by changing the color of its leaves; they begin to turn yellow; in addition, the flower slows down in development. Young shoots, as a rule, are weakened and underdeveloped.

If there is a lack of potassium, as well as nitrogen and phosphorus in the soil, the topmost leaves of the green pet turn yellow. If you do not pay attention to this signal in a timely manner and do not add the necessary vitamin and mineral supplements, then all the other leaves turn yellow quite quickly, the flower weakens and stops growing.

However, an excess of fertilizers can also harm the flower. Thus, yellowing of foliage is often a consequence of an excess of nitrogen - in this case, it changes color unevenly.

Temperature

Born in the tropics, Dieffenbachia loves warmth; for full growth and development, the flower requires a temperature of 20-25 degrees in both winter and summer. The flower can survive a simultaneous decrease in temperature to 10-15 degrees, but the consequence of such stress will be yellowing and further falling of all the lower leaves.

Brown spots on leaves: causes and methods of control

One wise book records the simple truth that all living things suffer from diseases. We see the truth of these words every day. Unfortunately, plants also get sick and the tropical beauty is no exception. Research shows that it is susceptible to fungal, viral and bacterial diseases. One of them appears when brown spots form on the leaves of diffebachia, around which there is an orange border. Over time, they spread to the entire leaf, causing it to die.

The main causes of the disease are caused by the following factors:

• high room temperature;
• changes in humidity;
• overwatering the plant.

If the care rules are followed and the listed points are not observed, then the plant is affected by a serious disease:

• anthractosis;

• fusarium;
• bacteriosis;
• bronzeness;
• viral mosaic.

With such problems, brown spots appear on the leaves, framed by a dark line. A solution of fungicide, which should be sprayed on the infected plant, will help get rid of the disease.

In order for Dieffenbachia to receive enough moisture from the air, it needs to be “housed” away from direct sunlight, and in the cold season, from central heating.

The best option for growing Dieffenbachia is the eastern side of an apartment or house. Away from the sun, which burns its tender leaves.

Home care

After acquiring Dieffenbachia, it can be replanted urgently only if its roots are not in the soil, but in a special composition. In other situations, it is better to wait a little while replanting, waiting for the plant to get used to the new conditions. So, what is the care for Dieffenbachia spotted at home?

During warm periods, that is, summer and spring, Dieffenbachia should be watered at least three times in one week. In winter, one watering for the same period of time is enough.

IMPORTANT! In the intervals between waterings, the soil should have average moisture. If it is dry at this time, you should change the location of the pot. Dieffenbachia flowering is an ear with a spathe

This period occurs extremely rarely for the plant. Dieffenbachia flowers cannot be called valuable

The flowering of Dieffenbachia is an ear with a spathe. This period occurs extremely rarely for the plant. Dieffenbachia flowers cannot be called valuable.

The crown of Dieffenbachia forms especially quickly. The size of the plant can increase by about forty centimeters per year. After Dieffenbachia reaches a length of just over one meter, growth stops.

Before preparing the soil for Dieffenbachia, make sure there are holes in the bottom of the pot. You can pour either purchased special soil into it, or create it yourself. You will need perlite, humus, and regular garden soil. All components must be taken in a ratio of one to three.

It is advisable to replant the plant every spring. Adult Dieffenbachias need only one transplant every four years. The most suitable month is April. It is during this period that the plant is most resistant to stress. This period is also suitable for planting.

It is better to purchase a plant in the spring so that it adapts to its new “home” as soon as possible and easily survives the “relocation”.

IMPORTANT! For any manipulations with the plant at the time of propagation, arm yourself with gloves. Substances contained in the plant can cause harm to the skin. It is not difficult to propagate Dieffenbachia at home

New plants can emerge from stem pieces as well as from top cuttings. After cutting off the top, be sure to powder the damaged area on the plant with ground pharmaceutical charcoal.

It is not difficult to propagate Dieffenbachia at home. New plants can emerge from stem pieces as well as from top cuttings. After cutting off the top, be sure to powder the damaged area on the plant with ground pharmaceutical charcoal.

It is advisable to keep the top in water for twenty or in sphagnum for twenty-one days until roots form, covering it with a glass jar or polyethylene. It is worth adding antimicrobial agents.

While the rooting process is taking place, it is important to frequently wipe the leaves, maintain room substrate temperature (about twenty-two degrees) and protect the top from the sun. The top should be planted in the ground only after the roots reach two centimeters in length.

The top should be planted in the ground only after the roots reach two centimeters in length.

It is not necessary to completely remove the substrate before planting so that the adaptation of the plant is as gentle as possible.

When growing, do not place the pot next to heating appliances. Dieffenbachia cannot be left without light either - it only tolerates partial shade. During cultivation, it is also necessary to spray the plant with clean water a couple of times every seven days.

IMPORTANT! You should not place a pot of Dieffenbachia in the nursery. If the juice of the plant gets on the child’s body, the consequences can be extremely unpleasant. In hot seasons, Dieffenbachia can withstand temperatures up to thirty degrees

But, in cold seasons, the temperature of the room where the plant is located should not be lower than fifteen degrees

In hot seasons, Dieffenbachia can withstand temperatures up to thirty degrees. But in cold seasons, the temperature of the room where the plant is located should not be below fifteen degrees.

In the photo below you can get acquainted with the appearance of Dieffenbachia Spotted and the characteristics of the plant:

Leaf plates do not open: a wise solution to the problem

Over the course of several decades, Dieffenbachia has gained particular popularity. It can be found in the corridors of clinics and hospitals, offices, educational institutions and even train stations. The main reason is simple care, consisting of the following activities:

• regular soil moisture;
• spraying leaf plates;
• growing plants away from drafts;
• room temperature control;
• correct choice of habitat (away from direct sunlight).

Despite this, the plant may get sick. Sometimes it happens that Dieffenbachia leaves do not open, as a result of which its beauty is lost. Often the reason lies in the following factors:

• it is exposed to direct sunlight;
• drafts that lead to sudden temperature changes;
• Root rotting due to excessive moisture;
• low level of indoor humidity;
• lack of useful elements.

Damage to the plant by pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, aphids or scale insects should not be ruled out. If “enemies” are detected, the flower should be treated with a soap solution. If this does not help, use insecticides.

Reduced temperature and draft

Dieffenbachia is a heat-loving tropical plant. At low temperatures, Dieffenbachia can drop all its leaves (especially if the temperature drops sharply).

The leaves turn yellow very quickly throughout the plant and fall off, except for the very top ones.

The reaction of Dieffenbachia to a draft is drying out and yellowing of the tips of the leaves. If such symptoms occur, you need to move the plant away from opening windows, otherwise it may turn completely yellow and then lose all its foliage.

Dieffenbachia can also react when kept in an air-conditioned room. If you are near an air conditioner under a stream of cold air, it will certainly shed its leaves and lose its beautiful appearance.

You cannot keep this plant not only under air conditioning, but even away from it, because it does not tolerate temperature changes in such a room very well.

Dieffenbachia “cries” and does not grow

Often, if the plant is not sick, it is distinguished by lush greenery, intensive growth and brightly colored plates. But as soon as lethargy appears, the color changes and Dieffenbachia does not grow, it’s time to sound the alarm. Perhaps the cause was pests or viral diseases carried by insects. As a result, yellow or brown spots form on the leaf plates, which adversely affect the growth of the flower. Coping with a disease can be difficult, so the best solution is to start a new plant and say goodbye to it.

Sometimes the following factors influence the growth of Dieffenbachia:

• lack of light;
• “drought” on the soil;
• need for feeding.

Careful attention to the flower and simple actions will help eliminate problems:

• moving to another location in the premises;
• regular moistening of the top layer of soil;
• use of special fertilizers for Dieffenbachia.

Unfortunately, each of us tends to go to extremes. Therefore, excessive watering can lead to rotting of the roots and the appearance of drops on the Dieffenbachia. It is interesting that in such an extraordinary way, the flower compensates for excess moisture. Such droplets on the leaves are also found during periods of heavy rain. This is how the plant protects itself from excess liquid.

Another reason for the appearance of wateriness on leaf blades is bacteriosis. At first, small droplets of moisture may not cause concern, but if they are outlined by a visible border, it’s time to sound the alarm. Subsequently, the foliage turns brown and dies. It is better to destroy such a plant to prevent the spread of the disease to other indoor flowers.

Diseases that cause yellowing of leaves

Poor quality soil, insects or improper care can lead to various diseases. Some of them are manifested by yellowing of leaves at different stages.

There are viral, fungal and bacterial infections:

1. Some insects are carriers of viruses, resulting in viral mosaic or bronzed leaves. Any viral infection cannot be treated; to avoid further spread, it is better to throw away the Dieffenbachia along with the soil and pot.
2. Bacterial damage manifests itself in the form of watery spots, the borders of which become brown over time. This disease is transmitted and has no cure. After the leaves are damaged, they fall off, development stops and Dieffenbachia dies.
3. The fungus mainly appears from constant dampness or cold. Among these diseases, spotting, anthractic blight and root rot are the most common. You can cure a fungal infection in the initial stages, until the roots or, moreover, the upper part along with the leaves have completely rotted. Well-known fungicidal agents are used, such as Fundazol or Vitaros.

Pests on Dieffenbachia

If stickiness, uncharacteristic spots, plaques, cobwebs or fluff are observed on the leaf plates, this means that pests have appeared on the flower.

If insects are detected, neighboring plant crops should also be inspected.

Care to prevent the loss of decorativeness of Dieffenbachia

Indoor care of a tropical plant consists of creating the correct temperature and watering conditions

It is important to exclude drafts and the influence of direct sunlight, this is one of the reasons for the yellowing of leaves in Dieffenbachia

The best solution would be to provide bright and diffused light; it directly affects the color of leaf blades of variegated varieties. As for the temperature, its indicators should be within 20-27 degrees in summer and 17-20 in winter. It is best to place the pot with Dieffenbachia away from radiators and heaters and closer to a closed window.

It is necessary to moisten the surface of the soil in which the home flower grows as the top layer dries, using settled and soft water. On hot days, you need to water the plant a little more often, focusing on the condition of the soil in the container. To maintain air humidity, you will need regular spraying and wiping the surface of the sheet with a damp cloth to remove dust.

Interesting! For Dieffenbachia, fertilizing is important, which is carried out in spring and summer. Liquid complexes and organic fertilizers are used. It should be borne in mind that a lot of nitrogen can cause the disappearance of the pattern on the leaf plates.

Dieffenbachia requires annual replanting, and you should select not only the right soil, but also the size of the pot. The procedure is carried out in the spring, before the onset of intense heat, so that the bush can adapt to new conditions

When changing the soil, the roots are handled as carefully as possible so as not to damage them. Sometimes it is better to use the transshipment method together with an old earthen ball

Proper care of Dieffenbachia can provide a high-quality decorative appearance of the plant. The measures taken will maximally protect the plant not only from yellowing of the leaf blades, but also from other possible problems and diseases.

Be careful - Dieffenbachia!

Despite its attractiveness, the sweet tropical beauty is a poisonous plant. The juice secreted by the plant causes minor damage to the skin. But if it gets on the mucous tissue of the mouth or eye, a burn occurs. In rare cases, complete intoxication of the body may occur, which manifests itself as follows:

• swelling of the oral tissues and lips;
• copious amounts of saliva;
• rapid breathing;
• vomit;
• diarrhea;
• temperature increase;
• tearfulness.

First aid for Dieffenbachia burns, and treatment consists of simple steps. First you need to rinse the affected area of ​​skin with running water. If there is pain, apply a lidocaine solution to the burn. If the juice gets on the eyeball, wash the affected eye with running water for about 20 minutes. Then use Levomycetin drops or furatsilin solution to prevent infection.

Burns caused by Dieffenbachia juice in the mouth are removed by rinsing. Clearly expressed pain can be quenched with a solution of novocaine (0.5%). After these steps, it is recommended to drink a glass of cold milk or water. In any case, when a problem arises, it is important not to waste time, but to act.

Why does Dieffenbachia turn yellow - video

Popular varieties and hybrids

Today, science knows more than 50 varieties of Dieffenbachia.

The following varieties are especially popular:

1. Lovely. It differs in that the veins of its leaves are white. The plant adapts perfectly to the conditions in modern apartments and feels great even in low light. Dieffenbachia leaves of this variety can reach a length of up to 0.5 m.
2. Spotted. It is characterized by a specific color in the form of small light spots. The leaves are quite large and have an oblong, pointed shape. The plant itself can reach up to 1 m in height.
3. Leopolda is a low-growing plant. As a rule, the length of the trunk does not exceed 5-10 cm, although its thickness can reach up to 2-3 cm. Moreover, the leaves are quite large, oval in shape and dark green in color. This variety is interesting because it has light veins on the leaves and lilac petioles.
4. Ørsteda differs from other varieties in that it has a uniform light or dark green color. The leaves of this plant are heart-shaped.

Pests of Dieffenbachia

Despite the fact that the plants are poisonous, they are often attacked by pests.

The most common:

Spider mite, a sign of damage to which is the presence of cobwebs in the internodes of the trunks, sluggish and falling leaves.

Thrips, small (1-2 mm) bugs that suck the juices from the plant, which leads to stunted growth, curling and drying of the leaves.

Aphids, numerous colonies of which not only weaken plants by sucking out intercellular fluid, but are also carriers of various diseases.

The appearance of spider mites, thrips and aphids on Dieffenbachia is especially favored by dry indoor air (relative humidity below 60%).

Scale insects and false scale insects, which suck the juice from leaves and stems, leaving a characteristic discharge, brown plaques that are difficult to remove. The leaves become discolored, dry out and fall off.

Mealybugs, insects 3-6 mm in size, attack leaves, stems and flowers, which are covered with a white mealy coating. The leaves become deformed and dry out, which can lead to the death of the entire plant.

Measures to combat all of the listed Dieffenbachia pests are similar; they consist of their mechanical removal using a sponge and soap solution, followed by rinsing under running warm water, and treatment, if necessary, with insecticidal preparations, actellik or karbofos, at a concentration of 15 drops per liter of water.

Strong hydration

Excessive moisture leads to fungal diseases of the plant

In case of rotting, Dieffenbachia needs an emergency transplant and reduced watering, and sometimes this does not help. We have to cut off and root the surviving tops.

To protect the plant from rotting, it is necessary to strictly adhere to its watering regime. You can’t overwater the flower, but you shouldn’t overdry the earthen ball either, as this can cause the death of the plant. Keeping the soil moist but not wet is quite simple. Watering is carried out only after the top layer of soil in the pot has dried to a depth of 2-3 cm.

Sometimes plants turn yellow as a result of root rot and with the correct watering regime. This happens when the soil composition is incorrectly selected. The soil for Dieffenbachia should be light. In heavy soils, water stagnation and root rot are possible.

Dieffenbachia diseases

Most Dieffenbachia diseases belong to the fungal group, the most common of which are:

Leaf spotting , causing the appearance along the edges of the leaves, primarily the lower ones, of small brown spots with an orange border, gradually covering the surface of the entire leaf blade. The disease is transmitted through plant debris and water.

Anthracnose , in which fairly large spots appear on the edges of leaf blades, gradually spreading to the entire surface and causing drying and death of the leaf. It is also transmitted through infected plant parts.

Both diseases are provoked by high temperature and humidity, waterlogged soil; as control measures, it is recommended to optimize the temperature regime and watering, as well as treat the affected specimens with a systemic fungicide, for example, foundationazol or vitaros.

Fusarium , affects the root collar and root of the flower, where dark depressed spots of an elongated shape are formed. Infected Dieffenbachia turns yellow and wilts. In damaged areas you can see light pink mycelium of the fungus. The causative agent of the disease persists in the soil for a long time and spreads when it touches diseased and healthy plant roots. The disease is promoted by overdrying and lack of potassium.

To prevent fusarium, it is recommended to use high-quality soil, healthy planting material, treated for disinfection with a biological fungicide (for example, hyocladine). When signs of disease appear, spray with a systemic fungicide.

Root rot , manifested in the form of dark depressed areas on the neck and roots, gradually affecting the entire tissue and causing decay, and subsequently lodging and death of the plant. The affected parts are covered with light gray mycelium. The disease is transmitted through the soil; it is facilitated by an excess of fertilizers and moisture in the soil, lack of ventilation, and high temperature. If there are signs of damage, limit watering, replace the substrate and treat with a systemic fungicide.

Among bacterial diseases, we note Dieffenbachia bacteriosis, in which watery areas with sharply defined boundaries appear on the trunks and leaves. Later they acquire a brown or brown color. The disease spreads through infected plant remains due to mechanical damage, for example, during cuttings. Flowers kept at elevated temperatures and humidity, with an increased amount of fertilizer in the soil, are more severely affected. Diseased specimens are destroyed.

Viral diseases include:

Bronzing of Dieffenbachia , manifested in the appearance of yellow circles, rings and arcs on the surfaces; the affected leaves wither, while remaining hanging on the trunks, often on one infected side.

Viral mosaic , which is characterized by mosaic leaf spotting.

Dieffenbachia affected by these diseases does not grow, stops developing, cannot be treated and must be destroyed to prevent the spread of the virus. The pathogen is carried by insects, thrips (bronzing) or aphids (mosaic). A preventive measure is treatment with insecticides.

Other problems encountered when growing Dieffenbachia

In addition to the pests and diseases listed above, Dieffenbachia may suffer from improper care and unsuitable living conditions. Let's look at some questions that often arise among amateur gardeners.

Why does Dieffenbachia turn yellow? Most often, the reason for this behavior is low air temperature in winter or drafts, as well as a lack of nutrients and watering with hard water. Yellowing of the lower leaves with intensive growth of the top usually signals that the flower needs to be transplanted into a larger pot. Dieffenbachia leaves also turn yellow when affected by root rot.

Why do Dieffenbachia leaves curl? This usually occurs when attacked by pests, also when watering with cold water, drafts and low temperatures.

Why does the stem become soft and rot? The reason is waterlogging combined with low air temperatures. If the decay is small, you can try to remove it by covering the cut with activated charcoal or charcoal; if it is large, cut off the flower and root the top.

Why does Dieffenbachia dry out? If old leaves dry out, then this is a natural process; if the decorative effect is lost and the stem is exposed, the Dieffenbachia is rejuvenated by cutting off and rooting the top. If young leaves dry out, the cause may be dry soil, cold air, or drafts.

Why do the edges of leaves turn brown? This is most likely caused by drying out soil or low temperatures in winter.

Why do the leaves become discolored? The reason is too bright lighting or direct sunlight on the plant.

Why does Dieffenbachia cry? This occurs from excessive watering; the flower protects itself from excess moisture in the soil. The same behavior is characteristic of Dieffenbachia before rain. As a resident of tropical forests, the plant prepares in advance for excess water and opens channels to get rid of it.

Reproduction

You can use three methods of propagating Dieffenbachia: seeds, a piece of stem and rooting the top.

1. Propagation by seeds is a very complex process and is almost never used at home. The fact is that Dieffenbachia has both male and female flowers, so it is necessary to carry out pollination, which results in the appearance of berries and then seeds. But besides the fact that the flowers need to be dusted, do not forget that Dieffenbachia rarely blooms at home.
2. Propagation by part of the stem. After part of the stem is cut off (perhaps even a combination with trimming the top), it must be divided into several pieces. Moreover, each of them must have at least 3 buds. All cuts are treated with charcoal. The cuttings are left to dry for 1-2 days, after which they are placed in a container with substrate (to the middle). When a leaf appears on the cutting, it is transplanted into a permanent pot. The stem is not cut off in order to prevent the development of rot.
3. Apical cuttings. If the plant has stretched out, shed a lot of leaves and does not look very attractive, you can cut off and root its top. This way you will not only make the adult specimen more attractive, but also grow a young plant. The top can be rooted both in water and in a sandy-peat substrate. If you decide to root the petiole in water, then it must be planted in the soil after the roots reach a length of more than 5 cm. To root the top in the soil, you must remember the rules for its maintenance:
   The pot is covered with film or glass.
4. The soil should be moist.
5. Temperature more than 20 degrees.
6. The lighting is bright, but diffused.
7. Every week, agents are added to stimulate the growth of the root system.

​Dieffenbachia ailments: how to help cope with them.

Dieffenbachia (lat.) is an evergreen tropical plant, its homeland is the humid forests of Central and South America.

Dieffenbachia can reach two meters in height, the leaves are large, wide, and variegated.

With good, competent care, Dieffenbachia pleases with its exotic beauty, the flower develops well, and new leaves constantly appear. But what to do if your “green household member” gets sick?

Most often, gardeners growing Dieffenbachia are faced with the fact that its leaves begin to turn yellow, dry out and curl, and there are other problems - the flower grows poorly and becomes lethargic.

What is the cause of the malaise: improper care at home or a pest attack? Let's look at all the "sores" of Dieffenbachia in more detail and try to determine the cause of their occurrence and methods of treatment.

Features of the flower

A common feature of all Dieffenbachia is a thick, succulent stem bearing large, oval leaves. The Dieffenbachia leaf is an amazing creation of nature, although breeders have made their contribution to the creation of many varieties and hybrids with different leaf colors. The growing point of Dieffenbachia is usually located at the top of the shoot, although there are species in which the dormant points are located at the base of the shoots, and therefore they are capable of bushing. The inflorescence of representatives of this genus, like other Araceae, is in the shape of a spadix, but Dieffenbachia rarely blooms at home. And it is not the flowering of Dieffenbachia that interests flower growers: Dieffenbachia flowers attract the eye with the beauty of their large variegated leaves.

Dieffenbachia is a unique plant. Get acquainted with a number of features that distinguish the indoor Dieffenbachia flower:

• Dieffenbachia is poisonous, so pruning and replanting of the plant must be carried out while observing safety precautions;
• Dieffenbachia grows very quickly - under favorable conditions, it produces a new leaf weekly, but as it grows, its trunk in the lower part becomes bare, the plant loses its decorative effect, and it has to be pruned and then rooted;
• Dieffenbachia does not tolerate sudden cold spells and drafts at all and loves moisture very much;
• Dieffenbachia does not tolerate lime, so water for irrigation and spraying must be settled or filtered. You can use rain or boiled water.

These not very attractive properties of Dieffenbachia, however, do not detract from its undeniable advantages, the most important of which is beauty and impressiveness.

Dieffenbachia diseases and their treatment

How to help a tropical beauty?

1. Dieffenbachia leaves turn yellow, reasons, what to do? Solution to the problem:
   low air humidity. Dieffenbachia, not receiving enough moisture from the air, also begins to turn yellow, so in winter it should be kept away from central heating radiators or buy an air humidifier;
2. direct sunlight, there should be enough light;

It is necessary to check whether the roots of the flower have actually begun to rot. To do this, you need to remove the plant from the pot, inspect the root system, remove rot and affected areas of the root, transplant the flower into another smaller container, observing the planting rules (drainage 1/3 of the pot, 2/3 soil mixed with sand and peat)

• low air temperature. Dieffenbachia is a tropical resident, it loves warmth, so the temperature in the room should not fall below 22 degrees;
• drafts, which the flower really does not like, so it is better to keep Dieffenbachia away from the balcony door and windows;
• Dieffenbachia dries and its leaves fall off, the tips of the leaves dry and wither, causes and solution to the problem:
• fungal infections (atracnose, leaf spot), fungal spores (leaf spot) can be obtained by the plant with irrigation water; dry brown spots appear along the edges of the leaves, gradually spreading over the entire surface of the leaf, it becomes lethargic and lifeless.
  Athracnose is provoked by excessively high temperature in the room, dry air, in some cases, waterlogged soil (excessive watering); to get rid of this problem, it is enough to normalize the temperature and watering regime; the affected leaves can be treated with a regular fungicide to prevent infection of other leaves;

drafts, low air temperatures can also lead to leaves drying out and falling off; to eliminate the Dieffenbachia problem, you need to ensure a comfortable microclimate in the room;

• the plant ages, the lower leaves dry out and fall off, this is a natural process.
  It is necessary to rejuvenate it by cuttings. To do this, the bare trunk of Dieffenbachia needs to be cut into cuttings, leaving only a small part of the stem in the pot, which will soon give rise to a new shoot and Dieffenbachia will continue to grow; To combat fusarium, the flower must be transplanted into another pot, after removing rot from the roots and treating the affected areas with a fungicide;
• root rot, which appears when the soil is overly fertilized and moistened. Rot first affects the root system, then gradually affects the trunk, the flower withers and dies. It is necessary to replant Dieffenbachia, having previously treated the roots with a fungicide and limit watering;
• overmoistening in combination with low air temperature, in this case it is necessary to provide the plant with a comfortable temperature and limit watering.

In the photo below you will see the symptoms of the disease in Dieffenbachia:

Why do Dieffenbachia leaves turn yellow and curl: what to do

In order for Dieffenbachia to grow for a long time in home conditions, it is necessary to create conditions close to a tropical climate. One of the common crop problems is the appearance of yellow spots. There are quite a few reasons, so it is necessary to analyze the plant and then restore it.

Incorrect lighting

The appearance of spots on the leaves of a crop is associated with exposure to a large amount of sunlight or, conversely, with their insufficiency. In dark places, the color of the leaves becomes faded and greener, which worsens their decorative appearance. If Dieffenbachia is located near a window facing the sun, the leaves may get burned.

The plant requires diffuse lighting. Damaged leaves cannot be restored, so they must be carefully removed with pruning shears. After this, the plant should be moved to a bright place, but without direct sunlight on the crop.

Watering

To maintain the life of Dieffenbachia, it is necessary to maintain the volume of water added to the soil. The plant begins to die when there is an excess of moisture. The roots and trunk of the plant are fleshy, in which the process of rotting begins when overwatered. You can see the beginning of decay on the lower leaves of the bush - they begin to turn yellow.

Proper watering of the plant:

• After each watering, you must wait so that the first layer of soil has time to dry.
• To moisturize, you need to add settled water at room temperature. When cold is added, the process of root rotting begins.
• After watering, you need to wait a little, and then pour the remaining water from the pan to avoid damage to the root system.
• Watering is required abundantly, but only after the surface of the earth has dried out. You can check it for moisture with your hand or a stick.

An excess of moisture forms a green coating on the ground, and it becomes slimy.

Priming

When the soil becomes waterlogged, the leaves of the entire crop begin to turn yellow. To restore the life of the plant, it is necessary to transplant it into new soil and treat the roots. How to do it:

1. Prepare new soil for decorative deciduous crops.
2. Move the crop without damaging the roots.
3. Carefully remove rotting areas. The cut areas must be treated with crushed charcoal or activated carbon.
4. Choose a pot suitable for the size of the root system. After processing the roots, their number can be significantly reduced. Do not replant the crop into an old pot. In a large container, the roots will begin to rot after watering, so it is better to choose a small pot.

After replanting the bush, you must follow the watering rules.

The cause of yellowing leaves may be a lack of water. In this case, the yellowness is insignificant, but the leaves themselves become dry. To restore the life of the bush, the plant should be properly watered. If the soil systematically dries out, the bush will die.

Air temperature and humidity

For cultural life at home, it is necessary to observe the following nuances:

• The bush should not be exposed to drafts, temperature changes, or be located in places where the temperature is below 12C or within its limits. These conditions cause hypothermia and death of the roots. The process begins with leaves. At the edges they begin to turn yellow and fall off.
• Dry and hot air has a negative effect on the leaves of the crop. The bush should not be near the radiator. If the apartment is hot, the plant must be sprayed with water 2-3 times a day. You can also place Dieffenbachia next to the flowers so that they humidify the air.

Fertilizers

The soil for the plant must contain the following substances:

• nitrogen;
• potassium;
• phosphorus;
• humic acids.

If they are deficient, the lower leaves of the crop begin to rot and turn yellow. The growth of the bush also slows down.

Nutrients in the soil are used by the crop for life, so the soil needs to be fed regularly. Feeding is especially needed during growth in spring and summer. You should select fertilizer without lime for decorative deciduous crops. Use the supplement as directed.

If the upper leaves of a crop begin to turn yellow, the reason for this is a deficiency of potassium and phosphorus. To restore nutrients, it is necessary to feed with additives for decorative foliage crops.

Natural death

During good growth of the bush, the lower leaves turn yellow and fall off. In this case, there is no need to worry. The components of the crop will grow back and acquire their former decorative appearance.

Viral diseases

Viruses spread to plants through pests living in them or from another diseased flower nearby. Common viral diseases:

• Viral mosaic. Identified by dark green round spots on the surface of the leaves. Over time, their number increases, and the culture dies.
• Bronze leaves. This disease causes leaf wilting. Round yellow spots form on them.

The plant cannot be restored after the virus appears. Crops must be removed to save other crops.

Bacterial diseases

Bacteriosis can be identified by the presence of watery spots on the leaves. If they have clear boundaries and then turn brown, then the plant dies. It is impossible to restore the bush and it is recommended to get rid of it to preserve other crops.

Fungal diseases

Fungal diseases are formed due to viral soil, water and residues of previous diseased crops. How to identify fungal diseases:

• Brown spots on leaves that get larger over time.
• Root rotting. Gray plaque.

It is possible to restore the life of a plant only at the first stage of the disease. To do this, fungicidal preparations should be used. When the above-described signs appear, the bush must be treated with Vitaros or Fundazol. Process according to instructions.

Pests. Methods to combat them

Despite its poisonous nature, Dieffenbachia is susceptible to attacks by pests, which cause significant harm to it.

It is most often affected by spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects. The method of combating each species is the same: it is necessary to wash the leaves and the trunk of the flower with a sponge soaked in soapy water (which should later be washed off under running warm water) and treat Dieffenbachia with an insecticide solution (karbofos, 15 drops per 1 liter of water).

• scale insect is a small insect with a hard waxy body, it can usually be found on the inside of the leaf; the affected leaves turn pale and fall off;
• the mealybug got its name due to its secretions that look like shreds of fluff, it attacks the leaves, Dieffenbachia begins to turn yellow and fall off, the flower dies;
• spider mite, the presence of which can be determined by a coating of cobwebs on the trunk, the leaves of the flower become sluggish and lifeless;
• aphid is an insect that has a dark green color, it can be seen on the inside of the leaves, aphids are dangerous because they are able to suck out intercellular fluid, weakening the plant and are a carrier of diseases;
• thrips are small beetles that suck the juice from the plant, which leads to curling and drying of the leaves.