Dieffenbachia are among the sturdiest indoor plants and are a popular, evergreen room decoration in offices and homes. Even if you don't have the proverbial green thumb, you can also take care of this grateful arum plant. If drops of water suddenly appear on the leaves, this is just a sign of the incredible adaptability of the ornamental plant.
After watering, the Dieffenbachia sometimes drips
drops after watering
The root system of the Dieffenbachia adapts perfectly to the subsoil. In loose soil, the plant forms a network of fine hairy roots, while the plants in hydroponics develop only a few, thicker roots. This ensures a water supply adapted to the soil.
If you water it vigorously, the Dieffenbachia absorbs as much water as possible, sometimes even more than it can evaporate through the leaves. But what to do with the surplus? The Dieffenbachia simply allows the liquid to drip out through the pores at the tips of the leaves. In technical jargon, this process is known as guttation.
In this way, it not only eliminates moisture, but also a large number of organic substances and water-soluble pesticides. For example, if you have put fertilizer or insect repellent sticks in the substrate, these active ingredients can be detected in the dripping liquid.
Prevent guttation drip
Since this liquid is only excreted if you suddenly start watering too much, you can effectively prevent the phenomenon by watering more often but less.
- In any case, wait until no more liquid escapes from the leaves before watering.
- Do a thumb test: only water when the top inches of the substrate feel dry.
- The hydroponic scoreboard recommends watering? Again, you can definitely wait another day.
tips
Dieffenbachia are among the poisonous plants that can cause severe skin irritation. It is therefore better not to be set up in rooms to which children and pets have access. Wear gloves when caring for the arum plant.