Welcome to the wonderful world of Aglaonema care! They are often referred to by their common name Chinese evergreen. A stunning and popular houseplant known for being an easy care low maintenance house plant. These wonderful plants come in an array of colours ranging from pink, red, silvery to green.
Known for their striking foliage that comes in a variety of patterns, shapes and sizes. Aglaonemas are known for their tolerance of lower light levels and are also known as the ‘Luck plant’ because it is associated with good fortune in Chinese culture. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to keep your Aglaonema healthy and thriving.
We stock a wide range of houseplants here at Between Two Thorns and if you're in Brighton or are planning to visit, pop into our Brighton indoor plant shop to find some new green friends.
Aglaonema Overview
Aglaonemas are native to tropical regions of Asia and are part of the Araceae family. These plants are often found basking in the shade of larger trees and plants where they receive dappled sunlight. Favoured by houseplant enthusiasts due to their easy-care nature. Aglaonema is derived from Greek, ‘Aglos’ which means bright or shining and ‘nema’ which means thread which refers to the beautifully patterned leaves.
How to Look After a Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen)
Light:
Aglaonema thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch their leaves. Aglaonemas will tolerate lower light so perfect for that shadier spot in your house. If your plant receives too little light, it may develop leggy growth and paler leaves but will generally tolerate most light conditions.
Temperature and Humidity:
Maintain a temperature between 18-26°C and can tolerate average room humidity levels. However Aglaonemas will prefer an extra boost of humidity. Mist your plant regularly or place it near a humidifier to create the perfect environment. Dry brown tips will indicate that more humidity is required. Keep plants away from radiators.
Watering:
Water your Aglaonema thoroughly when the top 2 inches of soil feels dry and let water drain out the bottom. Be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Use a well-draining potting mix and ensure the pot has drainage holes. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilising:
During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your Aglaonema with a balanced liquid fertiliser every 2 to 4 waters, it is always advised to follow the instructions on your fertiliser. Reduce feeding in the dormant winter months.
How to Re-pot a Aglaonema
Re-pot your Aglaonema when it becomes root-bound or outgrows its current pot, typically every 2-3 years. Choose a pot that's one size larger, provide fresh, well-draining soil, and gently transfer your plant, being careful not to damage the roots.
How to Propagate a Aglaonema
Propagating Aglaonema is an exciting way to grow new plants and can be done one of two ways. Follow these steps:
Stem cutting
- Choose a Healthy Stem: Select a stem that is at least a few inches long
- Cut the Stem: Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut where there is a node (Where an old leaf use to be)
- Rooting: Place the cutting in lukewarm water or moist soil. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
- Transplant: Once your cutting has well-established roots, transplant it into a pot with the appropriate soil mix.
Division
- Make sure you have watered your plant the day before you decide to propagate.
- Take the plant out of its pot and gently tease the roots apart, a garden fork can be used to help. Divide your plant into as many plants that you wish to make.
- Transplant these sections into a pot with the appropriate soil mix. Making sure they are potted to the same depth as they were previously. Water the soil.
- Care for the plant the same way you would normally.
How to Prune an Aglaonema
Pruning your Aglaonema helps maintain its shape and encourages healthy growth. Trim yellow or brown leaves, as well as leggy stems. Make clean cuts just above a leaf node.
How to Take a Cutting from a Aglaonema
Taking cuttings for propagation follows a similar process as mentioned earlier. Ensure you choose a healthy stem, make a clean cut, and follow the propagation steps.
How Often Should I Water a Aglaonema?
Watering frequency depends on various factors like humidity, temperature, location and pot size . If in a shadier spot it will need less watering then one in a brighter location. As a general rule, check the top two inches of soil and water when it's dry. Water less in winter and more frequently during the growing season.
Why Are My Aglaonema Leaves Going Yellow/Brown/Curling?
- Yellow Leaves: Yellowing leaves can result from overwatering, poor drainage, or too much direct sunlight. Adjust your watering and lighting conditions accordingly. If the leaves are wilting and yellowing it is most likely to be due to overwatering, check the roots for rot and re-pot if necessary. Sometimes yellow leaves can just be old leaves, take these off carefully.
- Brown Leaves: Brown edges or spots may indicate low humidity, underwatering, or direct sunlight. Increase humidity and adjust your watering routine. Too much warmth, for example, if the plant is next to a radiator, can cause brown leaves that dry up and fall off.
- Curling Leaves: Curling leaves can be a sign of underwatering, over-fertilization, or low humidity. Ensure proper watering and humidity levels.
How to Make a Aglaonema Bushy
Encourage bushier growth by regularly pruning leggy stems and small leaves. Ensure your Aglaonema has enough light, lack of light can cause this plant to become leggy.
Are Aglaonema Poisonous to Cats and Dogs?
Yes, Aglaonema is considered toxic to cats and dogs. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause oral irritation, drooling, and digestive issues if ingested. Keep your Aglaonema out of reach of pets or opt for pet-friendly houseplants.
Types of Aglaonema:
Aglaonema anyamanee (Chinese evergreen)
Aglaonema 'Pink' (Chinese evergreen)
Aglaonema 'Maria' (Chinese Evergreen)
Aglaonema 'Crete' (Chinese Evergreen)
Aglaonema 'silver queen' (Chinese Evergreen)
Aglaonema 'Ivy green' (Chinese Evergreen)
Aglaonema 'Red Zirkon' (Chinese evergreen)
Aglaonema 'Pink Flamingo' (Chinese evergreen)
Aglaonema 'Cutlass' (Chinese Evergreen)
With these expert tips, you're well-equipped to care for your Aglaonema and enjoy its lush, tropical beauty in your home. Happy Chinese evergreen growing!
