Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
Dumb cane, also known as Dieffenbachia comes in a lot of varieties, all of which can be considered as great, large, and showy houseplants. This plant is native to the New World Tropics from Mexico and south to Argentina. Dieffenbachia seguine plant is toxic to humans when consumed and the leaf contains a compound called Raphides which can purify the atmosphere at home or office.
Dumb cane is toxic to humans when eaten or ingested because Dieffenbachia( Dumb Cane) contains calcium oxalate which is not good for humans or animals. So, even though the plant makes a beautiful houseplant, you need to have a good knowledge of dumb cane care.
Growing and caring Dumb Cane
The most common problem while growing dumb cane is too much moisture. And, overwatering is also a common problem like any other houseplant.
Sunlight
A variety of lighting conditions can favor the growth of dumb cane, from light shades to bright indirect light. When the plant receives a good amount of bright, indirect light, the leaves become the most vibrant. The leaves can get burnt and may lose the color and start turning brown if it receives direct sunlight.
A location where the plant receives bright, indirect sunlight is ideal for the dumb cane. Rotate the plant regularly to provide adequate light to all sides of the plant and prevent it from reaching toward the light on one side. They can do fine in diffused sunlight or even partially shaded areas. The plant may stop growing if kept in a dark area, so this should be avoided. Since the dumb cane can also survive entirely on artificial light, they can be a good choice as an indoor plant at homes or offices.
Humidity
Moisture in the air is very good for dumb cane, and more moisture is always better. 60 percent humidity level throughout the year is very ideal for the plant. The plant thrives best in high humid conditions.
Kitchens and bathrooms are a very good option to keep the plant as they are quite humid. You can also increase the humidity in the air in various ways, like spraying the plant frequently with a light mist of water can increase the humidity and also can keep the dust off the leaves. High humidity is also a way to deter some pests and keeping the plant healthy.
Humidity can also be increased by placing the plants together. You can also use an electric humidifier to increase the humidity.
Temperature
The best temperature range for the dieffenbachia seguine is 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant may become weak in high temperatures and may result in stunted growth and damage to the foliage in cold drafts.
The plant does best in warm and cozy areas, they should not be kept in areas like doorways or disuses rooms that don’t get heated through the winter. Areas near heaters and sunrooms are also not ideal for the plant as they may get too hot.
Water
Dumb cane prefers soil that is lightly and consistently moist, but not soggy. When the top 1-2 inches of soil is dry, water it. The tips of the leaves may become brown if are watered unevenly. You should protect your plant from excessive watering.
Make sure that you water the plant regularly when needed, trip the brown tips to make it look green and healthy. Ensure the plant is in well-draining soil and the pot has drainage holes. It is very beneficial to allow the soil to dry partially followed by generous watering.
Soil and Repotting
Dieffenbachia seguine needs soil that retains some water but also drains well like every other houseplant. Mix the perlite or coarse sand in potting soil to add aeration, because standard potting soil may pack too tightly and drown out the roots.
The plant should be repotted very cautiously, if you give more space to your plant, it will also begin to require more space outside of the pot. Keep the plant in a restricted pot to keep it compact. While repotting, make sure to wear protective gloves with long sleeves because the sap contained both in leaves and stem is poisonous and can cause pain and discomfort.
Read also:
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