Aglaonema Plant Care Guide
Background
The aglaonema is also referred to as the Chinese evergreen. Its leaves vary in color from silver, pink, green, and white. Aglaonemas do have temperamental humidity requirements, but certainly manageable and is great for beginner plant parents. This article will teach you all of the tips and tricks on how to take care of your aglaonema houseplant. Be mindful that this plant is toxic for your furry friends.
Sunlight
Aglaonemas thrive best in areas that have bright indirect sunlight. If you are keeping your plant indoors, make sure it is a well lit location ideally near an east facing window. If you are keeping your aglaonema outdoors, make sure to never put your plant in direct light as it can be detrimental to the health of the plant.
Basic Plant Characteristics
-
Chinese Evergreen
-
Araceae
-
Great for Beginners
-
Bright, Indirect Light
-
pH 5.5-6.5
-
Toxic to Cats and Dogs
-
Zones 10-12 (USDA)
Humidity
One of the most difficult things to deal with aglaonemas is their humidity requirements. These plants require a 60% humidity level. It may be worth investing in a humidifier or making sure that your houseplant has a pebble tray with water.
If you are keeping your aglaonema outdoors. Be mindful that it is harder to regulate temperature and humidity outdoors. If you live in an area with drier climates, it may be best to keep the Chinese evergreen as an indoor houseplant. If you do keep your aglaonema outdoors make sure to mist your plants in the morning and at night.
Temperature
Anywhere in between 65–75°F. Aglaonema can survive outside of this range. If you live in an area that experiences colder climates. Begin bringing in your plant a few weeks before the first frost. If you keep your aglaonema plant indoors, don’t turn off the heat when you go on vacation or your plant may not be there when you get back.
Watering
Depending on the time of year, aglaonemas need to be watered every one to two weeks. The general rule of thumb is to never allow the soil to completely dry out and when it’s watering time, water liberally. Make sure that the container that is holding your aglaonema plant has good drainage holes.
Best Soil for Aglaonema Plants
A peat moss based potting soil is ideal but is not eco-friendly. If you are looking for more of an organic based soil consider using a mix of coco coir, coconut husk, and perlite. Make sure that the soil is well draining and only water when the top 50% of soil dries out. The aglaonema thrives on a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.6-6.5.
Susceptible Pests & Diseases
Aglaonemas (Chinese evergreens) are susceptible to many pests and diseases, some of which include the following:
Diseases:
Blight
Pests:
Types of Aglaonema Plants
On the smaller end, the aglaonema has about 21-24 species within the Araceae family. Some of the rarest variations of aglaonema include the Aglaonema Pink moon or any variegated versions of the Chinese evergreen. Below depicts some of the most common types of Aglaonema that would be a perfect addition to any green space in your home or office.
Aglaonema Pictum Tricolor
This variation of Chinese evergreen is famous for its camouflage like appearance. This plant has a very unique complexion.
Aglaonema Maria
This variation of Chinese evergreen is known for its grayish green stripes on each of the dark green leaves.
Aglaonema Pink Lady
One of the prettiest variations of aglaonema with its bright pink, green, and yellow leaves. One of the rarer types of Chinese evergreen houseplants.
Aglaonema Silver Bay
This Chinese evergreen has beautiful gray leaves with outlines of dark green around its edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
According to the ASPCA, aglaonemas and chinese evergreens are toxic to dogs and cats. Consumption may cause oral irritation, swelling of the mouth and tongue, excessive drooling, and difficulty swallowing. If ingestion occurs contact a medical professional immediately or visit the ASPCA link for more information.
-
Aglaonemas are very famous for their inflorescence flowers. Their colors vary from bright red, green, and pink.
-
One of the most common issues with aglaonema is yellowing leaves. This happens when your plant is not reaching its humidity and watering requirements. Make sure that you are not overwatering your plant. If you do see yellow leaves, make sure to cut off any dying leaves as this can be detrimental to the plants health by causing unwanted diseases. Don’t worry new healthy leaves will grow back!
-
Any all purpose fertilizer with a 20-20-20. This means that it has 20% nitrogen, 20% phosphorous, and 20% potassium. This type of fertilizer will help stimulate the production of chlorophyll for your aglaonema plant, as well as, help it absorb light and transfer energy.