Aglaonemas also known as Chinese Evergreens are hugely popular houseplants known for their colorful patterned leaves and low maintenance care. But while they are relatively easy to grow indoors, getting their watering schedule right is key to keeping them happy and healthy.
This full guide will tell you everything you need to know about how often to water your Aglaonema, such as:
Understanding Aglaonema’s Natural Habitat
Aglaonemas are from Southeast Asia and New Guinea, where they live in subtropical and tropical forests. In their natural habitat, they do best in shady, damp places where water is easy to find. Setting up these conditions at home will help your Aglaonema do well.
Setting a Watering Schedule
There isn’t a single way to water Aglaonemas that works for everyone. Needs depend on the time of year, the amount of light, the temperature, the size of the plant, and the size of the pot. However, as a general rule, you should water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- During spring and summer, aim to water every 1-2 weeks. In fall and winter, you can stretch to every 2-3 weeks.
- Aglaonemas in brighter light need more frequent watering. Those in low light need less.
- Larger, more mature plants need more water than smaller, younger ones.
- Small pots also dry out quicker than bigger ones.
Choosing the Right Soil
Well-draining soil is crucial for Aglaonemas. Use a quality potting mix made for tropicals or add perlite to regular potting soil to improve drainage. Ensure your pot has holes to allow excess moisture to escape.
Recognizing Signs of Over and Underwatering
- Underwatering signs: Drooping leaves, dry soil, brown leaf tips
- Overwatering signs: Yellow leaves, mushy stems, moldy soil smell
Adjust your schedule accordingly if you notice these.
Watering Techniques and Tips
- Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom drainage holes.
- Avoid leaving plants sitting in water after watering.
- Water in the morning to allow leaves time to dry.
- Use room temperature water, not cold.
- Allow fresh tap water to sit out overnight before using.
- Bottom watering by placing the pot in a tray of water can be effective.
Adjusting for Season and Environment
- Water more frequently in warmer months when plants are actively growing.
- Reduce watering frequency in winter when growth slows.
- Check soil moisture before watering regardless of season.
- Increase humidity and water a bit less frequently if your home is very dry.
Using Technology to Help
Tools like moisture meters and smart plant sensors can take the guesswork out of knowing when to water. Apps can help track schedules.
Pay attention to your individual plant’s needs and adjust your watering schedule and techniques accordingly. Aim for moist but not soggy soil. With the right balance, your Aglaonema will continue to brighten your home with its vibrant foliage for years to come.
Water:
Aglaonema does not need to be watered daily. In fact, they are incredibly resilient, and if forgotten for a few weeks generally do just fine. Overwatering can cause your plant to die, and wilted or soft leaves that have yellowed are often a sign of overwatering. It is preferable to keep your soil slightly moist, letting it dry out in between waterings. To keep the water from pooling at the bottom, use a pot with drainage holes and empty the water tray of any extra water. In general, your plant will benefit from being watered once every two weeks. Monitor your plant closely, however. Different factors such as warmth, sunlight, and the time of year will all affect how much water your plant will need.
How to Prune your Aglaonema
Aglaonema does not necessarily need to be pruned regularly. Pruning an aglaonema is usually done to encourage new growth, cut off dead or damaged foliage, or for propagation purposes.
1. Yellow or brown stems can be trimmed at the beginning of the color change.
2. Annual blooms can be trimmed to allow new growth.
3. If the plant is large but with minimal outward growth, trim an inch or two back.
Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreen) Care: A Noob-Proof Houseplant
FAQ
How much water does an Aglaonema need?
It is preferable to keep your soil slightly moist, letting it dry out in between waterings. To avoid pooled water at the bottom, ensure that you are using a pot with holes for drainage and emptying the water tray of any excess water. In general, your plant will benefit from being watered once every two weeks. Dec 6, 2021.
Do aglaonemas need sunlight?
Your Aglaonema prefers indirect bright light. It can adapt to low light, but the growth will slow considerably. Direct morning sunlight is fine for this plant, but avoid direct afternoon sunlight which can burn the leaves. If you don’t have an ideal location for your Aglaonema, use a Grow Light.
Do Aglaonema like to dry out?
Aglaonemas, also known as Chinese Evergreens, prefer to have their soil moist but not soggy, and they do not like to dry out completely. While they can tolerate periods of dryness, they thrive when watered regularly, allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings.
How do you know if you are overwatering Aglaonema?
Aglaonemas are pretty sensitive to overwatering, so always check the soil before watering it again. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves, wilting, and a musty smell.