While the majority of houseplants take some work to maintain optimal growing conditions (light, temperature, humidity, etc. ), cultivating Chinese evergreens may make even the most inexperienced indoor gardener appear an expert. This tropical foliage plant is one of the most hardy indoor plants, tolerant of low light, dry air, and drought.
How to Grow Chinese Evergreen
It’s simple to grow Chinese evergreens (Aglaonema). Due to its simplicity of maintenance, this jewel of a plant is one of the most popular houseplants. Chinese evergreen plants come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including variegated species.
While they are adaptable to a wide variety of growth environments, adhering to basic suggestions will provide the best results. This includes planting them in well-draining soil, preferably a combination of potting soil, perlite, and sand in equal proportions.
Chinese evergreen plants flourish in settings of moderate to low light or in indirect sunshine. Wherever you set it in the home, you should ensure that it receives mild temperatures and a moderate amount of humidity. However, if required, this adaptable plant will survive less-than-ideal circumstances.
These plants like temperatures of no less than 60 degrees Fahrenheit (16 degrees Celsius), with an average indoor temperature of 70 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (21-22 degrees Celsius) being optimal, although they may survive temperatures as low as 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit (10-13 C.). Keep Chinese evergreen plants out of drafts, which can cause the leaves to brown.
Chinese Evergreen Care Guide
When given the right growth circumstances, caring for Chinese evergreen houseplants involves minimal work. They benefit from moderate irrigation—not too much nor too little. Allow some time for the plant to dry out between waterings. Overwatering might result in root rot.
Fertilize older Chinese evergreens once or twice a year using a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer as part of their Chinese evergreen maintenance.
Trim your Chinese evergreen plant if it grows too huge or leggy. Additionally, cuttings can be saved during the process of growing new plants. Cuttings readily root in water.
Occasionally, older plants will produce blooms like calla or peace lilies. This occurs between the spring and summer. While the majority of individuals prefer to clip the flowers prior to seed development, you may like to maintain them and experiment with seed cultivation. Bear in mind that this will take significantly longer.
To prevent dust formation, wipe the leaves periodically with a soft, moist rag or just set them in the shower and let them to air dry.
Spider mites, scale, mealybugs, and aphids can all harm Chinese evergreen houseplants. Routinely inspecting the leaves for signs of pests will assist in limiting future issues.
While it may appear daunting at first, particularly if you are unfamiliar with growing Chinese evergreens inside, it is actually much easier than you believe.