Question
I have read your response posted on Feb. 2, 2011 concerning a topheavy Dieffenbachia. My plant is in a similar topheavy situation.

If I understand correctly, I would cut off the top section of my dieffenbachia (there would be 9 huge leaves) and then i'd put this section directly in the earth close to the bottom part of the pruned plant. Would the top part with its 9 leaves really eventually root, since I don't 爓ant to keep the bottom part, its stem's diameter being really small (3/4 in.) at the earth's surface compared to nearly 3 in. higher up.

Or would air layering be a better solution in my case since I want to keep the top section with its 9 leaves ?

Thank you so much for your help !

Nancy



Envoy?de mon iPad

Answer
Hi Nancy,

If you are not interested in preserving the lower, thinner stem section, then I suggest you discard it and start the top section in a 6" or 8" diameter terra cotta pot filled with fresh standard potting mix. Because shorter top cuttings root a bit more readily, you may want to consider removing several of the lower leaves and making your top cutting shorter by leaving a bare stem of no more than 4-5 inches below the lowest remaining leaves.

Air layering is a more complicated option, but will give you a somewhat better chance of success. If you know how to air layer, then I suggest you go that route. Otherwise, top cutting will most likely work, although there are no guarantees in either case.

I have written articles on plant propagation and 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.

If this information has been helpful, please click the Rate Volunteer bar below and enter a rating and nomination for me. I am a volunteer on this site so Ratings are the only compensation I receive for answering plant questions.

Need more information? Visit my website at www.HorticulturalHelp.com
or email me at [email protected] or call me at 917-887-8601 (EST)
 
Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC