Keep the soil of your aglaonema plant just moist, but not soggy, and don’t let it dry out completely. In general, it will require more watering in the spring and summer and less in the winter, so keep an eye on the soil moisture. When your plant’s leaves droop, it’s telling you it’s getting too dry. They should brighten up again quickly after being watered. If the leaves of your plant are yellowing or the stems feel mushy, it’s a sign that it’s getting too much water.
Exposure
2 thumbs up – several Ags are noted for their ability to tolerate lower light levels. Dark leaf kinds, like as mine Ag. Maria, seem to do best in low light (which, by the way, isn’t much).
Medium-light is required for my Aglaonema Red and other plants with greater color and brilliance in their foliage to thrive. These can withstand bright light, but keep them away from windows when the sun is shining brightly, or they’ll burn in no time.
Watering
When mine is dry, I water it. In the summer, this happens every 7-9 days, while in the winter, it happens every 2-3 weeks. Depending on your home environment, type of soil mix, and pot size, you’ll need to adjust your watering plan.
To obtain a better concept of how to determine a watering schedule, see my Guide to Watering Indoor Plants.
Two things to remember: don’t overwater yours, and reduce the frequency throughout the winter. Your houseplants prefer to rest at this time of year.
How do you care for Aglaonema plant?
Aglaonema plants are propagated by stem cutting or division by one of my pals. What is the best way to prune an aglaonema? Keep an eye out for new growth at the plant’s base. Remove the plant from the base and replant it in a new pot. Don’t prune the plant until all of the withering or dead leaves have been removed. Growth will arise from the crown in this situation, and you will be unable to prune it without destroying your beloved plant.
Planting and Repotting Aglaonema Plant
- chopping off the lanky top of the stem and rooting it in the soil or water
- Because too much soil might lead to rot, use a 2:1 perlite-to-potting-mix ratio, albeit raw perlite is tough to work with.
When should aglaonema be transplanted? Because these plants develop slowly, transplanting should be done every 2-3 years. It doesn’t matter what season it is when transferring aglaonema to a larger pot.
Aglaonema Plant Care Guide
Even if there are no unique requirements for cultivating aglaonema, there are some guidelines that everyone should follow.
I didn’t take care of aglaonema when I first bought it, and it perished quickly. To be honest, I believed I’d been duped because my acquaintance informed me that such plants don’t take much attention. ‘Not much’, on the other hand, does not imply “no concern at all.”
Aglaonema, like many tropical plants, requires warmth and humidity; it dislikes cold drafts and direct sunlight.
Lighting
Some cultivars of the plant can thrive in partial shade. Aglaonema types with variegated leaves demand greater light, however this does not mean they should be exposed to direct sunlight. If the plant isn’t getting enough light, the leaf stalks will become long and lanky. Aglaonema, on the other hand, cannot endure direct sunshine, resulting in leaf burns.
Temperature
Aglaonema should not be exposed to temperatures below +16 °C (60 °F) in the winter. The ideal temperature for growth is between +20 and +25 degrees Celsius (68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The better the aglaonema plants grow, the warmer it is. Aglaonema cannot tolerate drafts or drastic temperature changes.
Watering
Aglaonema grows in soil that is well porous to moisture and air in nature, and it receives daily abundant watering. Aglaonema should be watered often during the growing season if kept inside. Reduce watering in the autumn and winter, but keep in mind that overdrying the soil might cause aglaonema. During the cool season, you should also avoid pouring aglaonema.
What kind of water should I use to treat aglaonema? Years of caring for these plants at home taught me another rule: water for watering should be soft, well-settled, and not colder than room temperature.
Air humidity
Aglaonema thrives in humid environments. In the summer, it’s best to spray it every day. It is also vital to dust the leaves on a regular basis. Do not use a shine solution to coat the leaves. Plants in pots can be placed on trays of moist expanded clay to maintain correct humidity.
Repotting & Soil mix
Young Aglaonema plants should be repotted every year in the spring, but adult plants should be repotted every 3-5 years or less. When the roots of Aglaonema are restricted by the pot’s small size, it produces a lot of leaves. Don’t forget that the bottom of the pot needs to be well-drained.
Aglaonema requires a light, loose, and water-permeable soil. With crushed charcoal added, the soil combination can be made up of leafy soil, peat, and sand (2:1:1). You might also construct the following arrangement: 1 tbsp. peat, 1 tbsp. leafy soil, 1 tbsp. light turf soil, and 2 tbsp. sand Aglaonema thrives in hydroponics as well.
Propagation
Seeds, cuttings, and the separation of daughter plants are all used to propagate Aglaonema. In fact, because it grows slowly, aglaonema is difficult to reproduce.
The simplest method is to divide the bush as it is being repotted, separating well-rooted shoots with 3-4 new leaves.
When the stem has branched out or the plant has grown old and a conspicuous trunk appears, cuttings can be taken. The apical stalk can be cut off the top of the trunk, and the rest of the trunk can be split into 4-5 cm long pieces and planted. Also, don’t throw away the stump; it will sprout new leaves soon. Rooting takes 2-3 weeks in a warm environment. During the summer, Aglaonema should be pruned.
Aglaonema seed sowing is a hobby for aglaonema enthusiasts. Seeds should be planted in bowls with light, loose soil in February or March, sprayed with warm water from a spray bottle, and covered with glass. By removing the glass twice a day, the soil with crops is maintained moist and ventilated. One by one, the seedlings are transplanted into 7 centimeter pots. Water them sparingly and keep them out of direct sunshine. Young plants should be housed in the northeast or northwest windows during the summer.
Toxicity
Aside from all of the aglaonema care instructions, it’s important to remember that the plant is toxic to cats and can be deadly to humans. When handling aglaonema, use gloves to safeguard your safety. Contact your veterinarian right away if your pets show signs of poisoning, weakness, disorientation, or diarrhea.
Be Aware When Leaves Curl and Turn Yellow!
Curling leaves are the earliest indicators of negative changes caused by viruses that target and kill the tissues of aglaonema. Such viruses are extremely tough to eradicate. Preventative actions, on the other hand, can help to limit the likelihood of viruses spreading. Tissue culture, cuttings, sowing seeds, seedlings, and graft separation are just a few of the things you can perform.
Aglaonema Care: 5 Rules to Know
The following instructions for plant maintenance will come in handy during the growing process:
- Aglaonema treatment begins with the correct placement of the aglaonema. Your mission is to locate the location that receives the least amount of indirect light.
- To avoid being harmed by drafts, keep your plant away from doors, air vents, and windows.
- Fertilize the species twice a month at the very least. From spring through October, water them with a suitable solution (1 tsp. soluble 20-20-20 analysis fertilizer and 1 gallon of water).
- Wiping the leaves with a wet towel to eliminate dust and grime is one of the fundamental care tips.
Does Aglaonema need sunlight?
The Aglaonema is a perennial favorite on everyone’s favorite houseplant list! It’s difficult to find a more flexible stunner than this one, with its unusual and luxuriant leaves, ease of maintenance, and ability to adapt to practically any home or office area.
This plant, sometimes known as the “Chinese Evergreen,” is native to Asia’s tropical forest floors and prefers a location with indirect light because direct sunshine can scorch its leaves. It’s best to keep it a few feet away from a well lit window where it may receive brilliant diffused light, but some Aglaonema cultivars can survive lower light levels and even fluorescent illumination.
Read our article on how to measure light in your environment if you’re unsure about the lighting conditions in your house or office.
Is Aglaonema an indoor plant?
Because of its Asian roots, Aglaonema is regarded as a Chinese Evergreen no pun intended. The ‘Ag,’ as it is known in the industry, is another term for it. The ‘Ag’ is one of the most popular houseplants, with a wide range of colors and patterns. Aglaonemas come in a variety of colors, from dark green to silver, with touches of red on occasion. This color variety brings new life and flair to your home decor by adding vibrancy and distinctiveness.
Aglaonemas are popular in modern home design and can really bring a room to life. Experiment with different home locations and potting to see how your Ag can transform any space. It’s also a terrific addition to any plants you already have.
Aglaonemas are lovely, slow-growing plants that do not require full sun, making them ideal for interior use. The Chinese Evergreen is a genus of flowering plants in the Araceae family that are native to Asia and New Guinea’s tropical and subtropical areas. This genus of plants is found in damp, shaded tropical forest habitats.
The Best Lighting Conditions for an Aglaonema
Aglaonemas, as previously said, do not require much direct sunlight. Aglaonemas that are darker green in color can grow in shade better than other indoor plants that are brighter green in color, but some of the variegated varieties of the Aglaonema may require more light than others, so it is important to research the type of Aglaonema you are going to get so you know how to care for it properly. The Aglaonema Reds, for example, thrive in medium light, therefore it’s crucial to keep them in the sun but not right near to windows, unlike other of its sibling Aglaonemas that need less.
Instructions for the Best Nutrition for Indoor Plants
All foliage plants, including Aglaonemas, are purposefully developed swiftly in order to reach a marketable size for selling. So they are reared in less-than-ideal circumstances from the start, which may not always reflect the conditions they will face when they come to live in your home, such as climatic variances, light shifts, and a lack of easily available nutrients.
Many gardeners use macro fertilizers like nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium to boost growth rates in their greenhouses, but these components are unlikely to be readily available in your supply closet. Check all the fertilizers we provide and talk to one of our care professionals to get the right one for you!
The fertilizers that came with your plant should last about six months, so we recommend keeping an eye out for these growth changes during that time. However, not all plants will see drastic growth changes, so pay attention to the finer points and have fertilizer on hand to meet your plants’ nutritional requirements. Following that six-month fertilization period, all of your plants’ nutrients become your responsibility as the rightful new plant parent you’ve got this!
Cleaning the leaves of an Aglaonema
We’re making good progress. You’ve learnt all about plant nutrients, how to water it properly, and what Soil Sleuths are, and now it’s time to talk about cleaning care. It’s impossible to avoid dusty leaves. Your ‘Ag’ has sleek and big leaves that will certainly catch dirt and dust particles, regardless of color or variation. A small amount of dishwashing soap and water will solve this problem. Take a cloth and gently wash the leaves with a mixture of soap and water until all of the particles have been removed, then… TA-DA! Your plant is looking brand new again, and it was a quick and simple remedy! Finally, remember to be kind with your plant because it is delicate.
Pruning
So, what does pruning entail? The removal of certain portions of a plant is a horticultural procedure. This could be in the form of branches, buds, or roots. When pruning your plant, it is critical that the limbs remain intact in order to maintain the plant upright. This is a frequent method to keep the plant from becoming stressed and to enhance air movement throughout the plant. The Aglaonema does not require much pruning; it is just pruned to remove yellow lower leaves or wasted flowers. Because this is not a typical occurrence in agriculture, it is rarely required. If you do need to trim your Aglaonema, make sure your pruners are exceptionally sharp and clean before doing so to avoid harm.
Everyone asks if you should Repot Your Aglaonema
We noted briefly in Watering Note #2 how crucial it is to keep your plant in its grow pot unless you find yourself in a situation where your plant has outgrown his area. Your Aglaonema will ultimately outgrow the growpot and the root system will run out of room to grow, which might be detrimental to the health of your plant. What evidence do you have that this is true? Don’t worry about figuring out when it’s time to remove your Aglaonema; it’ll tell you when it’s time by growing straight out of the drainage holes in the grow pot and from the top of the soil. This does not imply that the growpot will be removed; rather, it will be relocated to a larger one. These larger grow pots can be found for a reasonable price at local stores or online, but be aware that you will most certainly come across them.
History of the Aglaonema
The Aglaonema was originally introduced to the West and displayed in the Royal Botanic Gardens, where it was admired by visitors from all over the world. Before it became the famous houseplant it is today, that is where people first saw the Ag’s beauty. The Aglaonema is interesting because of the patterns that its leaves may create, making it a really distinctive plant. They are also known as flowering plants, and NASA research have shown that they can purify indoor air and minimize dangerous compounds that humans inhale on a regular basis. This Chinese Evergreen has even been found to kill strep infections, so it’s a potent plant!
That concludes your comprehensive guide to Aglaonema Chinese Evergreen care and growth. Start with the right amount of light not too much is needed, then add in a thoughtful watering regimen for your new plant find the power in doing nothing, then add some nutrients (fertilizer for the win! ), don’t forget that Soil Sleuth it’s a game changer, and finally a few wipe downs of the leaves every now and then, and you’ll be sure to enjoy many, many years of vibrant, eccentric, and beautiful love from your Agla Prepare to embark on a lengthy journey with your Ag!
Fertilizer
The good news is that the plant isn’t picky about what it eats. You can fertilize every two months with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to 1/4 strength to encourage growth and provide additional assistance. You can also use fish or seaweed emulsion as an alternative.
Re-Potting
Every 2-3 years, Aglaonema should be re-potted into a larger container, or one that is 2 inches larger in diameter than the previous one, using new potting soil. Because this plant thrives when it’s little root-bound, a few roots in the drainage holes at the bottom are acceptable.
Pests and Diseases
Aphids, mealy bugs, red spider mites, and scale insects all attack Chinese evergreen. Manually exterminate them or use insecticidal soap.
Myrothecium and anthracnose leaf spots are diseases that affect Aglaonema. This might result in leaf discolouration as well as holes in the leaves. This should be taken care of with a little sprinkling of liquid copper fungicide.
What is the best fertilizer for aglaonema?
During the growing season (spring through summer), water as needed, then water less regularly in the winter. Indoor plants positioned in brighter regions will require more regular watering. Chinese evergreens in lower light settings should be watered less frequently. Because these plants don’t like to be wet, wait until the top two inches of soil are dry before watering fully. Never leave the roots in standing water, and make sure the pot is well-drained.
Where do you place aglaonema plant?
Aglaonemas thrive in bright, well-lit areas, such as a window sill with eastern light exposure. It’s best if the light is bright but indirect. Avoid placing your Cutlass Aglaonema in direct sunlight, since the leaves can burn. Use a Grow Light if you don’t have a suitable place for your Aglaonema. Your Cutlass Aglaonema will tolerate, if not thrive, in low-light environments. Artificial light available in windowless offices is usually sufficient for this hardy plant.
How do you save a dying aglaonema?
By snipping off damaged leaves and transferring to a warmer spot, you can save a dying aglaonema with yellow leaves. Never remove more than 1/3 of the leaves at a time while pruning aglaonema. Remove just the worst damage if more than 1/3 of the leaves are yellow. It’s still possible that you’ll be able to salvage the plant.
Should I cut yellow leaves off aglaonema?
A Chinese evergreen plant with a few yellowing bottom leaves is considered typical. It’s one of the ways the plant gets rid of its old leaves. The energy is channeled towards the growth of new foliage.
During the autumn and winter, the yellowing of aglaonema old leaves is extremely prevalent. It is when the plant is dormant and consumes less energy.
The aglaonema plants do not require a lot of food. Because of its slow growth, the houseplant only requires a tiny amount of liquid fertilizer.
The yellowing of leaves is an indication of nutritional insufficiency in a plant. When the indoor plant is not fertilized at all or after repotting, the situation is common.
Yellowing and discolouration of the plant leaves occur when the plant receives insufficient nitrogen. Stunted growth and molted leaf changes are caused by a lack of potassium and phosphate.
Returning to a regular fertilizer application schedule will assist in resolving the issue. The brilliant colors of the injured leaves will return. Fertilizing the plant once or twice a year is advised.
Many houseplants are severely harmed by insect infestations. These creatures cause yellow patches, uneven holes, and sticky leaf surfaces on plant leaves.
Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites are all attracted to Chinese evergreen trees. If these insects are not controlled as quickly as possible, they will kill the aglaonema plant.
The sucking of cell sap causes the yellowing of aglaonema leaves. The stems and leaves droop when the internal fluid is drained. To get rid of these little critters from the plant, use insecticide sprays.
Both bacterial and fungal diseases are common in Aglaonema houseplants. These factors usually have an impact on the plant’s overall growth rate.
The proliferation of black blotches on the leaves is caused by a bacterial infection, which also causes the leaves to yellow. Overwatering is frequently the cause of the disease problem.
Isolating the plant from other plants will assist to prevent the disease from spreading. It also provides an ideal setting for reviving the plant’s bright colors.
Remove any injured leaves and try to maintain a consistent watering schedule for the plant. It’s the most effective technique to help the indoor plant overcome its illness problem.
Why do Aglaonema leaves turn yellow?
Inadequate soil moisture, particularly overwatering, is the most common cause of yellowing leaves in Aglaonemas. When the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry, water your Aglaonema. The soil should be moist but not wet. Allow your plant to dry out a little more between waterings in the winter.
When watering, make sure there’s enough water in the pot for liquid to flow from the drainage hole in the bottom to the saucer. It’s critical to drain any extra water from the saucer, as your Aglaonema will not tolerate “wet feet,” which will cause the roots to rot and the plant’s eventual death.
It is critical to provide adequate and regular soil moisture when caring for an Aglaonema. Stress can be caused by alternating between bone dry and wet soil due to ill-timed waterings, causing your Aglaonema to yellow.
Low humidity and dry soil lead the edges of leaves to brown, followed by complete yellowing. The humidity in your Aglaonema will be increased by misting the leaves often.
Aglaonemas will flourish in low to bright indirect sunlight in most cases. The leaves will burn if it is exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period of time. Aglaonemas can adapt to low light environments, so don’t be afraid to put it in a dark corner if that’s what it wants.
Insect infestations are more likely in Aglaonemas that are weak or stressed. Spider mites and other sap-sucking insects can dehydrate your plant. Yellowing leaflets and fronds are the first signs of this condition. Scale, mealybugs, and spider mites are all common indoor pests. These little bugs grow and travel all along the frond sections into nooks and crannies if not removed early on. The insects’ piercing jaws deplete your plant and hasten yellowing, especially if your Aglaonema is already sickly due to poor lighting, nutrient deficiencies, or insufficient soil moisture.