How to Grow a Perfecta Dief House Plant
"Perfecta Dief" is short for dieffenbachia perfecta, a hardy and pretty houseplant that's low-maintenance and easy to grow indoors. It's popular for growing in offices because it can tolerate dry conditions. With little more than bright light, dieffenbachia can thrive, growing 18-inch leaves on stems that spread 3 feet across and 6 feet high. Its biggest problem is occasional root rot from inadequate drainage. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Dieffenbachia perfecta
- Water-soluble plant fertilizer
- Water
- Bright light source
Instructions
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Place dieffenbachia perfecta where it will get the most light. A sunny, south-facing window is best, especially in winter. This plant will grow in lower light conditions, but much more slowly, and the leaves won't be as colorful.
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Make sure the pot containing the perfecta dief is draining properly. If the holes in the bottom of the pot are blocked, water will pool around the roots and cause rot and mold.
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Water thoroughly, but allow dieffenbachia to dry out between waterings. Water when you can't feel moisture when you stick your index finger in the soil up to the second knuckle.
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Fertilize once a month with water-soluble plant fertilizer measured at half strength. Be on the lookout for brown, curling edges on the leaves, a sure sign of too much fertilizer.
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Pinch off faded or struggling leaves to keep dieffenbachia bushy and healthy. If they grow too tall, cut back stems and it will produce new growth beneath the cut.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid big temperature swings if possible. Dieffenbachia like to be kept at a consistent temperature between 65 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do not ingest dieffenbachia---it is toxic to people and pets.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Feuille de Dieffenbachia image by GUILLIN from Fotolia.com
