Overview: Aglaonema Schott
Aglaonema Schott, commonly known as Chinese Evergreens, is a tropical plant, native to the lowland rainforests of Southeast Asia, including the Philippine Islands and Indonesia. It belongs to the Araceae family, also known as the Aroid family and is a popular ornamental plant that is being widely grown in homes as a houseplant and also in offices and other commercial spaces.
Common Names
The plant's common names vary from region to region: in the United States, it's recognized as Chinese Evergreens, while in some countries like India and Bangladesh, it's known as 'Pink Lady' because of its striking pink color.
Appearance
The plant has lush and glossy green leaves with different patterns like silver, pink, yellow, and red, depending on the variety. Its foliage is thick, and the shape of the leaves varies from oval to lance-shaped. The plant is relatively small and grows up to 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide.
Uses
This plant is widely used as an ornamental plant, grown in offices, homes, or commercial indoor spaces due to its decorative foliage and adaptability to varying light conditions. Also, it is known for its air purification properties by removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and other volatile organic compounds commonly found in indoor settings.
Light requirements
Aglaonema Schott, commonly known as Chinese Evergreen, is a plant that thrives well in low to medium light conditions. It can tolerate low light conditions, making it perfect for indoor environments with limited access to natural light. However, it should be kept away from direct sunlight as it can scorch its leaves.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Aglaonema Schott is between 60°F to 85°F (15°C to 29°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) and as high as 95°F (35°C), but its growth may slow down if the conditions are not optimal. To achieve the best growth conditions, the plant should be placed in a room with a constant temperature and away from any drafty areas.
Soil requirements
Aglaonema Schott prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. It requires soil that provides adequate moisture retention while still allowing for proper drainage. It is recommended to provide a pot with adequate drainage holes and using a peat-based potting mix. The peat-based soil mix is perfect for retaining moisture, which is essential for the plant's growth.
Cultivation
The Aglaonema Schott thrives well in bright light but can tolerate low light conditions. It is essential to keep the plant away from direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. Also, this plant prefers warm temperatures of between 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The Aglaonema Schott can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide in the right conditions.
Watering Needs
The Aglaonema Schott requires moderate watering. It is best to water the plant once the top inch of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and cause the plant to wither. Conversely, underwatering can lead to wilting and yellowing of the leaves.
Fertilization
Fertilizing the plant once every two weeks during the growing season is recommended. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. You may reduce the frequency of fertilization during the winter months as the plant's growth slows down.
Pruning
To encourage bushiness, remove the top few inches of the stems using sterile pruners. Cut the damaged or diseased leaves from the bottom of the plant as they will not recover. Wiping the pruners with rubbing alcohol before use will help prevent the spread of infections. Prune only during the growing season, when the plant is actively growing and producing new leaves.
Propagation of Aglaonema Schott
Aglaonema Schott, commonly known as Chinese evergreen, is a popular houseplant due to its attractive foliage and low maintenance requirements. It is a slow-growing plant that grows up to 2-4 feet tall and wide. Propagation of Aglaonema Schott is relatively easy, and the plant can be propagated in various ways, including division, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Division
Division is the most common method of propagating Aglaonema Schott. The plant should be carefully removed from its pot, and the roots should be gently separated into smaller clumps. Each clump should have at least one stem and some healthy roots. The separated clumps can then be potted into new containers filled with well-draining soil, preferably with added perlite or sand to improve drainage. The newly potted plants should be watered thoroughly and placed in a warm and bright location, but not direct sunlight.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another way to propagate Aglaonema Schott. Select a healthy and disease-free stem that does not have any flowers or buds on it. Cut a 4-6 inch stem with a sharp and sterilized knife, making sure the cutting has at least two leaves. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder before planting it into a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting regularly and keep it in a warm and bright location but out of direct sunlight. The cutting should root within 4-6 weeks and can be potted into a new container once it has established roots.
Air Layering
Air layering is a technique used to propagate Aglaonema Schott when the stem has become too long and woody. Make a small cut on the stem, about 1/3 of the way through, and apply a rooting hormone to the exposed area. Wrap the cut section with damp sphagnum moss and cover the moss with plastic wrap. Secure the moss and plastic wrap with twine or rubber band. The roots will begin to appear in the moss after several weeks. Once the roots are about 1-2 inches long, cut the stem beneath the newly formed roots and pot the new plant into a container filled with well-draining potting mix. Water the newly potted plant thoroughly and keep it in a warm and bright location but out of direct sunlight.
Disease and Pest Management for Aglaonema Schott
Aglaonema Schott is a popular indoor plant known for its low maintenance and beautiful foliage. However, like any other plant, it can be susceptible to diseases and pests that can damage its overall health and beauty. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Aglaonema Schott and how to manage them:
Diseases
Bacterial leaf spot: This disease is caused by the bacteria Xanthomonas campestris and results in dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Root rot: Aglaonema Schott can be prone to root rot if overwatered. This disease is caused by various fungi and can result in yellowing leaves and root decay. To manage root rot, reduce watering, and avoid letting the plant stand in water for an extended period. Repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Pests
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny insect pests that are challenging to detect on Aglaonema Schott. They suck on the sap of the leaves, resulting in yellowing, stippling, and ultimately, leaf drop. To manage spider mites, isolate the affected plant, increase humidity, and spray with a solution of water and insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs: These pests have a soft, cotton-like appearance and feed on sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them from the plant's leaves and stems. Introduce predatory insects like ladybugs in your garden to help control the infestation.
Scale insects
Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stem and feed on sap, leading to wilted leaves and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, scrape them off using a soft-bristled brush and rinse the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.
Regularly inspecting the plant for diseases and pests and taking corrective measures promptly can help Aglaonema Schott stay healthy and beautiful year-round.
