Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) Care

Houseplants| Indoor Gardening

If you are looking for a houseplant to do well in medium to low light, the Aglaonema, also known as a “Chinese Evergreen” is a perfect choice.  It’s easy to care for and offers beautiful foliage. Perhaps you have an Aglaonema already and it is not thriving the way you would like it to. Whether you are looking for an “easy” houseplant or want tips on how to best care for this popular houseplant, read on to find out how to keep your Aglaonema happy and healthy. 

There are many different colors and varieties of Aglaonema.  Ranging from leaves that are almost entirely dark green to leaves that are red or pink in color, you are certain to find a color that suits your fancy.  There are three main factors to consider regarding almost all houseplants: light, water and location.  

Light

While the Aglaonema can do well in low light, it thrives in medium light.  If you have a dark green Aglaonema, you can get away with very little light, and it will do just fine.  The more variegated the leaves are, like “Spring Snow” variety (to the left), the more light it will need to maintain the color.  Highly variegated or red varieties will prefer brighter light–just make sure the light is always indirect light.  Direct light will burn the leaves almost immediately. You can place the more variegated or red varieties in lower light, but the colors won’t be as brilliant.  

 

Water

If your houseplant isn’t doing well, chances are it’s because of too much or too little water.  Plant species vary widely on the amount of water they need. For your Aglaonema, allow the top 25-30% of the soil to dry out in between waterings.  When you water, water thoroughly, but make sure it drains and your plant is not sitting in water. The roots will not be happy if they are wet. In the winter, you can allow your Aglaonema to dry out completely between waterings.  

Aglaonema do like humidity.  Misting your plant from time to time will help with the humidity factor.  Or simply place a layer of pebbles in the dish your plant sits in and add water about halfway to the top of the pebbles.  Again, make sure the roots are not sitting in water.  

Location

For the Aglaonema, location is very important.  You have a lot of flexibility with light, but less with location.  Keep your Aglaonema away from a drafty spot, such as near a doorway or air vent.  Aglaonema will look lovely as a table top plant, and larger varieties do well on the floor.  

Make sure the temperature in your home stays between 60 and 75 degrees for the Aglaonema to stay happy.  Cold temperatures will definitely hurt it.  

What Else?

  • Added bonus:  Aglaonema is one of the top-ten air purifying plants, so breathe happier when they are around. 
  • Be careful around pets or children! Aglaonema is mildly toxic and should be kept out of reach or out of homes with pets or children. 
  • Aglaonema likes to be somewhat pot-bound.  If you do need to replant, make sure to only do so in the growing season–spring or early summer and do not go up more than 2-inches in diameter with your new pot. Read more about re-potting your houseplant here
  • Fertilize Aglaonema with a fertilizer made for houseplants at most once a month during the growing season.  Do not fertilize in the winter.  
  • A tip for “your tips”: if you notice the tips of your leaves turning brown, it could be due to the chlorine and/or flouride in your tap water.  If you use tap water to water your plants, allow the water to sit for at least eight hours before using. 

We have a few varieties of Aglaonema in stock now, and frequently receive new ones.  Come check out our selection, and as always, if you need advice or have questions about caring for your houseplant, let us know! We love to help you bring green home and KEEP it green! 🙂