Question
Hello.  I have a very large "Tropic Snow" looking plant.  I
believe it is called an Dieffenbachis amoena.  I'm not sure
of the name because mine is over 10 ft. tall and the
description of the "Tropic Snow" is that it may grow over 3
ft.  Anyway, it's main stem broke and is hanging on by
threds.  My question is, can this be grafted?  By that I mean
can I patch it back together and get results.  Or is it better
to go ahead and completely detach the two pieces and put
the stem in water and hope that it grows new roots?

I really want to save this plant.  What is the best way to save
it?

Thank you for your help.


Answer
Brook,

Your plant is a Dieffenbachis amoena. "Tropic Snow" is a variety name and it may or may not be that variety.  It is possible to graft it back together using some small sticks or popsicle sticks as a splint and tape. Check it in a month and see if it is growing back together. In the meantime pick up a bottle of Rooting Hormone powder at your nearest garden center.  If you see evidence that the splint is not working go ahead and cut the top off and dust the bottom of the cut with the rooting hormone them put it in a new pot of soil and it should start growing new roots in 2 weeks or less.

The bottom of the plant will also grow a whole new top and you will have 2 plants at that point. If you have more questions write again. Good luck.

Darlene