Question
I have a Diffenbachia (I don't know how to spell it), also known as mother-in-law tongue.  I have had it for YEARS (at least 30).  Occasionally I have to remove bottom leaves, as they yellow and look "dead". Can I re-start it by cutting off the roots and bottoms and putting the healthy stems back into water or soil?  I have read some things about the plant but I don't know about the "air" of top leaves...what does that mean?  I don't want to lose this plant, when it actually "flowers" it is amazing.  But, we are tired of looking at the bare stems and would love to see it flourish again.  The tops are growing like weeds and so beautiful.

Thank you.

Nancy Teppan

Answer
Hi Nancy,

Dieffenbachia is also known as Dumb Cane. Mother-in-Law plant is an entirely different plant species - Sansevieria trifasciata. From your question, I am quite sure your plant is a Dieffenbachia, but you should double check to be sure.

Dieffenbachias grow ever taller and lose their lower leaves as they grow. Eventually they also become top-heavy and usually need support to keep from falling over. To eliminate the bare lower stems and the top-heaviness, regular pruning is the only solution.

It is best to cut back all leggy stems to a height of about 6 inches above the soil. New growth will emerge from the shortened stems just below the point where you made the cut and grow upward from there. The pruned off upper portions can be rooted in water or in moist soil. Prune off the lower section of these cuttings so that only about 6-8 inches of bare stem remains below the lowest leaves.

I don't know what you mean by the "air" of top leaves. Perhaps that was a reference to 'air-layering?' I would need more information to help you with that question.

I have written an article on Dieffenbachia care that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who sends a request to me at [email protected].

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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