How to to Growing and Care for Aglaonemas

To grow Aglaonema successfully, you'll need to provide the right growing conditions [3] and care. New York Garden will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right soil to watering and fertilizing your plants.

Flower Color	White
Soil Type	Well-drained
Bloom Time	Spring, summer
Sun Exposure	Partial, full
Plant Type	Herbaceous, perennial
Common Name	Chinese evergreen, Philippine evergreen, Poison Dart Plant
Native Area	Asia
Family	Araceae
Botanical Name	Aglaonema commutatum
Soil pH	Acidic
Hardiness Zones	10–12 (USDA)
Mature Size	1–3 ft. tall, 1–3 ft. wide

Aglaonema is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Araceae. They are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and New Guinea. Aglaonema plants are also known as Chinese evergreens, and they are popular houseplants because of their attractive and colorful foliage. There are many types of aglaonema plants, each with different leaf shapes, patterns, and colors. Some of the most common types of aglaonema plants are:

• Aglaonema Red Valentine: This type has bright green leaves with red and pink streaks. It is also called the Chinese evergreen lady.

• Aglaonema Golden Madonna: This type has broad green leaves with yellow or silver veins. It is a short and compact plant that can fit in small pots.

• Aglaonema Pictum Tricolor: These have round, tri-hued leaves that resemble camouflage and have three different hues of green. It is an uncommon plant that grows slowly and requires strong indirect light.

• Aglaonema Silver Bay: This type has variegated leaves with different combinations of silver and green. It is a fast-growing plant that produces new leaves frequently.

• Aglaonema Chocolate: The latter variety features leaves that look like chocolate and are dark green with crimson veins. This gorgeous plant can bring contrast to any setting.

Aglaonema, also known as Chinese evergreen, is a popular houseplant that can thrive in low-light conditions. It has attractive foliage that comes in various colors and patterns. Aglaonema care is easy and rewarding, as long as you follow some basic guidelines.

Light

Aglaonemas, with their striking foliage, flourish when positioned in settings with indirect and filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight exposure can result in leaf scorching, so it's essential to keep them in well-lit rooms where they are shielded from direct sun rays. While allowing them a dose of natural light, avoid placing them too close to windows where harsh sunbeams might reach them.

Watering

Maintaining the right balance of moisture in the soil is crucial for Aglaonema health. To prevent overwatering and root rot, it's advisable to let the top inch or so of the soil dry out before your next watering session. Slightly underwatering is generally better than overwatering. During the winter months, when the plant's growth rate decreases, adjust your watering schedule accordingly, allowing the soil to dry out a bit more between waterings.

Humidity

Aglaonemas tend to thrive in environments with elevated humidity levels. To create the ideal conditions, you can mist the leaves regularly, employ a humidity tray beneath the plant, or position the pot on a bed of damp pebbles. While they do appreciate higher humidity, they are also adaptable and can manage well in average indoor humidity levels.

Temperature

Maintaining a suitable temperature range is vital for the well-being of your Aglaonema. They are most content when exposed to temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). It's prudent to keep them away from drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which could negatively impact their growth and overall health.

Soil

Choosing the right soil mixture is a key component of Aglaonema care. Opt for a potting mix that offers good drainage and aeration. Enhance the mix by adding perlite or orchid bark, which can effectively improve drainage and contribute to a healthier root environment.

Fertilizing

To support vigorous growth and development, it's recommended to nourish your Aglaonema with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the active growing season, typically in spring and summer. Aim to fertilize every 4-6 weeks to provide essential nutrients. However, as the plant's growth naturally slows down in the fall and winter, it's wise to reduce or altogether halt fertilization during these periods.

Aglaonema is a genus of evergreen plants that are popular as indoor ornamental plants. They are easy to grow and propagate, and can tolerate low light and humidity conditions. One of the most common methods of propagating aglaonema is by stem cuttings. Here are the steps to follow

1. Select a healthy stem with at least two or three leaves and cut it about 10 cm below the lowest leaf.

2. Remove the lower leaves and any flowers or buds from the stem.

3. Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone powder or gel to stimulate root formation.

4. Fill a small pot with moist potting mix and make a hole in the center.

5. Insert the stem into the hole and gently press the soil around it to secure it.

6. Water the pot well and cover it with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment.

7. Place the pot in a warm and bright location, but avoid direct sunlight.

8. Check the pot regularly and water as needed to keep the soil moist but not soggy.

9. After four to six weeks, you should see new growth emerging from the stem. This means that roots have developed and you can remove the plastic bag.

10. Continue to care for your new aglaonema plant by watering, fertilizing, and pruning as needed.

Aglaonema, also known as Chinese evergreen, is a popular and easy-to-grow houseplant. However, it can still suffer from some pests and diseases that can affect its health and appearance. Here are some of the most common problems and how to deal with them:

Fungal leaf spot

On the leaves, this illness generates dark or gray patches that frequently include golden haloes or concentric circles. It could be brought on by excessive watering, extreme humidity, or too much nitrogen. Avoid overhead watering, lower the humidity, and, if necessary, use a fungicide to treat and prevent fungal leaf spot.

Bacterial leaf spot

Uneven, dark brown or black dots that may expand and combine appear on the leaves as a result of this illness. Infected plants, water splashes, or contaminated equipment can all spread it. Purchasing plants free of disease, removing sick leaves, and watering sparingly to keep the leaves dry are the best ways to prevent and cure bacterial leaf spot. If required, you can also apply a bactericide that contains copper.

Mildew and root rot

Fungi that like damp environments are what cause these disorders. Root rot causes the roots to become mushy and discolored, while mildew generates a white, fuzzy growth on the leaves. Avoid overwatering, enhance drainage, and boost air circulation to avert and cure mildew and root rot. To eliminate the fungus, you can also apply a fungicide or a solution of hydrogen peroxide.

Aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, and scale insects

These are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing, wilting, curling, or dropping of the leaves. They may also produce honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and sooty mold. To prevent and treat these pests, inspect the plant regularly and remove them manually or with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil to spray the plant.

In ordinary peat-based potting soil, this plant thrives. To enhance drainage, it could be a good idea to add some perlite or sand. Although any material can be used to make a pot, it's usually preferred to use a nice clay or ceramic pot with adequate drainage. Every two or three years, repot them in the spring. Prior to repotting, Chinese evergreens may have a little amount of root bind. Even though the potting mix should always stay wet, irrigation can be drastically decreased in the winter.

How do I propagate Aglaonema? 

The first and best method for propagating aglaonema is the water propagation method. You can also propagate by division by laying the pot carefully on its side, using a trowel to loosen the soil on the sides of the container, gently taking the plant and soil out of the pot, and lightly shaking the dirt from the roots.

What kind of soil should I use for Aglaonema? 

Aglaonema plants like to grow in rich, well-draining soil with porous components like perlite or vermiculite to break up smaller particles1. You can also use a coco-peat mix or seed germination soil mix for seed propagation of Aglaonemas.

Are aglaonema toxic to pets or humans?

Aglaonema contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth, throat and skin if ingested or touched. They are toxic to cats, dogs and other animals that may chew on them. Keep them out of reach of children and pets and wash your hands after handling them.

The New York Garden works under restricted procurement guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies and studies conducted by academic organizations. Tertiary references should be avoided. For more information on how we ensure our material is correct and up to date, please visit our editorial policy.

1. Popular houseplant - National Library of Medicine

2. Attractive foliage - United States Department of Agriculture

3. Growing conditions - University of Minnesota Extension