Question
I received this large cutting of a Dieffenbachia, Dumb cane.
The cane is horizontal with the shoot growing out of it
vertically ... looks like an upside down T.
Can I cover the cane with dirt? Do I need to wait for it to
grow roots that will grow down into the soil? I'm having
trouble keeping it stable and would like to cover the cane
with dirt but will I kill it by doing that?

Answer
Hi Shawna,

Your Dieffenbachia cane cutting should be kept in constant contact with damp potting mix. The dampness will cause rots to emerge and grow down into the damp potting mix. Use a sterile mix of peat moss and perlite. You can rest the cane on the surface of the damp mix or you can completely bury the cane with the mix. I think you will find it easier to manage if you set the lower half of the horizontal cutting in the soil with the top half above the mix.

If you keep the potting mix too wet, then the cane cutting will rot. On the other hand, if you allow it to get too dry, then any immature roots that have developed will shrivel and die. So maintaining the proper moisture level is more important than how deeply you cover the cane cutting.

I have written an article on Dieffenbachia care that I will email for free to anyone who sends a request to me at my address below.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC