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Pale Leaves in Dieffenbachia
verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team
Dieffenbachia is a popular, easy-to-grow tropical houseplant with large, variegated leaves in shades of cream, white, yellow, and green
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Dieffenbachia care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to pale leaves in Dieffenbachia. Check each one as a potential cause.
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Light
Tolerates low to bright indirect light but grows best in medium to bright, filtered light. Variegated varieties need more light to maintain coloration. Avoid direct sun which can fade colors.
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Fertiliser
Feed monthly during spring and summer with balanced liquid fertilizer at full strength. Reduce feeding in fall and winter.
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Water
Water when top 1–2 inches of soil dry out. Keep soil moderately moist during growing season. Reduce watering in winter. Use room-temperature water. Overwatering causes root rot.
symptoms
Symptoms to look for in Dieffenbachia
- fiber_manual_recordWashed-out, pale colour
- fiber_manual_recordYellowing between veins
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Common causes in Dieffenbachia
- fiber_manual_recordIron deficiency
- fiber_manual_recordMagnesium deficiency
- fiber_manual_recordToo much direct sun
- fiber_manual_recordAlkaline soil
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How to diagnose pale leaves in Dieffenbachia
Interveinal yellowing on new growth = iron deficiency. On old growth = magnesium deficiency.
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How to treat pale leaves in Dieffenbachia
Apply chelated iron or Epsom salt as appropriate. Adjust soil pH.
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Preventing pale leaves in Dieffenbachia
Use ericaceous compost for acid-loving plants. Feed with micronutrient fertiliser.