With good care and in a location where it feels comfortable, the Dieffenbachia can grow as large as a small shrub. At the latest when the new leaves reach the ceiling, it is time for a pruning. As a result, the plant regains a reasonable size and grows densely.

If the Dieffenbachia becomes too large, it can be cut back without any problems

Please note:

The Dieffenbachia is poisonous and can irritate the skin if touched. Plant sap splashing into the eyes is also not without risk. It is therefore essential to wear gloves and to be careful with this care measure.

Which tool is suitable?

A sharp knife with a clean blade is ideal. You can also make the cut with well-cutting kitchen scissors or pruning shears. However, preference should be given to the knife, as the branches are crushed when cutting with the scissors, which not all plants can cope with equally well.

Regular topiary

During the growing season you can always cut back the Dieffenbachia a little if necessary. With these minor corrections, the shoots are shortened to just above a sleeping eye. You can recognize this by a slight bulging of the bark.

Strong cutback

If the plant spreads out laterally or has to be shortened in height due to lack of space, a gentle topiary is no longer sufficient. In this case, you can shorten the Dieffenbachia completely to a length of ten to twenty centimeters. Please note:

  • The knife must be very clean to prevent bacteria from entering the wound.
  • Make sure that one dormant eye remains on the shoot, because the Dieffenbachia will only sprout from this one.
  • A wound disinfection as with other plants is not necessary.

When can such a strong cut be made?

You should preferably carry out this care measure at the beginning of the main growth period in spring. During this time, the Dieffenbachia recovers very well and drives out again vigorously and healthily.

tips

You can use the cut shoots as offshoots to propagate the plant. In this way, many small Dieffenbachia can be grown, which are also a nice gift for friends and acquaintances.

Category:

Indoor plants