How to Grow and Care for Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen)

The Aglaonema, commonly called the Chinese Evergreen, is a popular houseplant recognized for its lush and often vibrant foliage. Its adaptability and simple maintenance have made it a favorite choice for homes and offices. The plant’s decorative leaves come in a variety of patterns and colors, adding a touch of nature to indoor spaces for many years.

Core Care Requirements

Light

Aglaonema plants tolerate a wide spectrum of light conditions, from low to bright, indirect light. Darker green varieties are well-suited for near-shade environments, making them ideal for rooms with limited natural light. Varieties with more variegation require brighter conditions to maintain their colors. Avoid placing any Aglaonema in direct sunlight, as the intense rays can scorch the leaves.

Water

The soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings; the top one to two inches should feel dry to the touch. When watering, do so thoroughly until water exits the pot’s drainage holes, then discard any excess that collects in the saucer. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot, so it is better to be slightly underwater than to provide too much moisture.

Soil

A well-draining potting mix is necessary for Aglaonema to prevent water from pooling around the roots. Most standard, peat-based houseplant mixes work well. These mixes often contain ingredients like perlite or pine bark, which improve aeration and drainage, creating an optimal environment for the root system.

Temperature and Humidity

Chinese Evergreens thrive in warm and humid conditions, preferring a stable environment between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is important to protect them from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, so avoid placing them near air conditioning vents or drafty windows. These plants are sensitive to the cold and should not be exposed to temperatures below 60°F (15°C). They also appreciate high humidity, and increasing it by misting the leaves weekly or placing the pot on a pebble tray can be beneficial.

Fertilizer

To support healthy growth, Aglaonema benefits from regular feeding during its growing season in the spring and summer. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer for houseplants is a suitable choice. This can be applied monthly, diluted to half-strength to avoid over-fertilizing. During the fall and winter, when growth slows, feeding should be reduced or stopped entirely.

General Maintenance and Upkeep

Pruning

Pruning helps maintain the plant’s appearance and encourages healthy, bushy growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or shears to remove any leaves that have turned yellow or died. If the plant starts to look leggy, selective trimming can encourage a fuller, more compact shape. Dusting the leaves regularly keeps them glossy and helps the plant absorb light more efficiently.

Repotting

An Aglaonema will require repotting when its roots become pot-bound or start to grow through the drainage holes, which is needed every two to three years. Select a new pot that is only one size larger than the current one. Gently remove the plant, place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix, and water it well.

Propagating Aglaonema

New Aglaonema plants can be created through division or stem cuttings. The simplest method is division, which is best performed during repotting. Carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring each new clump has a healthy portion of roots and stems, and then pot them individually.

Another method is taking stem cuttings. Use a clean blade to cut a section of stem that includes at least a few leaves. These cuttings can be placed in a glass of water until roots develop or planted directly into a pot with moist, well-draining soil.

Common Problems and Solutions

Pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale can affect Aglaonema. These can be managed by wiping the leaves with a damp cloth or using an insecticidal soap for more persistent infestations. Keeping the leaves clean also helps prevent pests from taking hold.

Leaf discoloration can indicate an imbalance in care. Yellowing leaves are often a symptom of overwatering, while brown, crispy leaf tips can point to low humidity or excess fertilizer. Mushy stems are a more serious sign, indicating root rot from waterlogged soil. Adjusting care habits can often resolve these problems.

Aglaonema Toxicity

Aglaonema plants are toxic to both pets and humans if any part of the plant is ingested. This toxicity is due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. When chewed or swallowed, these sharp crystals can cause irritation, pain, and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and digestive tract. For safety, keep Chinese Evergreens in a location out of reach of curious pets and small children.