Dieffenbachia Tiki

Part to full shade outside in morning sun; low to medium indirect light inside

Water the ivy when the top inch dries to the touch. Browning and yellowing leaves can occur if it is overwatered. Too dry of soil can attract infestations of insects or diseases.

Enjoys humidity. Spritz occasionally.

Average comfortable room temperatures will be sufficient. These plants do not like cold temperatures under 60¬∞F. 

Outdoors in  part shade morning sun (4-6 hours), where nights are above 60¬∞F. If using in a container, it can only be used as an annual up to Zone 10 and then brought inside during the colder months. 

Water the plant before fertilizing to avoid fertilizer burn. Fertilize each time you water by using a diluted liquid fertilizer.  Use half the recommended strength. Fertilize in the spring and summer months once a month in the fall and winter. If there is leaf curling during, backoff fertilizing and let the plant rest. Leach out the soil at this time. 

When the plant is rootbound and ready to repot (early spring before growth starts), plant in a 2" bigger container in diameter and slightly deeper than the existing planter. Use an indoor container mix that is well-draining with good aeration. Add soil to the bottom to elevate the root ball. Lift the plant and inspect the root ball. Notice if there are any dead or rotting roots and trim off with sterile pruners. If the plant is rootbound, cut through the roots to alleviate continued encircling. Ensure the plant is sitting about 1" below the edge of the pot to avoid water spillage. Add more soil and backfill around the sides by tamping down. Do not cover the current level of soil on the plant but add soil up to this level. Replant and water thoroughly, leaving the soil damp but not soggy. Add more soil after watering if the soil settles. 

Gently wipe clean with a soft damp cloth or paper towel. Work gently from the stem's base toward the tip of the leaf doing both sides at once. After cleaning the leaves, remove any dead leaves or debris on the surface of the soil. At this time, keep a lookout for pests and treat or remove them. Refreshen soil mixture if needed. 

Use gloves to prune away dead, damaged, or diseased leaves down to the stem base with sterile scissors or a knife. 

To propagate this plant during the growing season, take a stem cutting in the early spring. Use a knife or sharp pruners, cut below a node where there are at least three leaves. Find a place in the plant where there are still stalks on either side with leaves so it will have a chance to generate new leaves. Place the stem in a glass jar and fill with filtered water and watch the roots grow! Replace and freshen the water each week. After the roots are several months old, add to moistened potting soil, continue to water, and give it the bright, indirect lighting requirements.