Urban Sprouts Complete Guide to Chinese Evergreen Care
Chinese Evergreen Care At A Glance
Sunlight Requirements: Bright, indirect light is best, but it can adapt to low light.
Watering Requirements: Let the soil dry about three-quarters of the way down, or just fully dry, before watering.
Is this plant pet-friendly? Keep out of the reach of curious critters
Communication Style: Leaves may curl with a bright yellow leaf at the base when too dry, or a bruised brown leaf when the soil has been kept too wet.
Caretaker fit: Chinese evergreen make great plants for busy or beginner plant care takers. They appreciate getting a little space between waterings, and they are fairly forgiving of a learning curve.
About Chinese Evergreens
Chinese Evergreens (Aglaonema) are popular for their tolerance of a wide variety of conditions and the range of colorful variations to choose from. These hardy and vibrant plants are considered symbols of good luck in Feng Shui and have been grown as ornamental plants in Asia for centuries. The genus name, Aglaonema, comes from the Greek words agalos (bright) and nema (thread), inspired by the eye-catching markings on the stems and leaves of some varieties.
What should I plant my Chinese Evergreen in?
Plant your Chinese Evergreen in a ceramic pot with a drainage hole that’s about two inches larger than the root mass. Ceramic pots help insulate the roots from temperature and moisture extremes, making it easier to keep your plant healthy. The right soil blend also supports a thriving plant by providing the proper balance of nutrients, moisture, and airflow.
Products for Chinese Evergreen Care
Type: Essentials
Organic Bacterial Inoculant Fertilizer
Type: Substrate
Rainforest Blend - Specialty Soil
How often should I water my Chinese Evergreen?
Check the soil regularly with your finger or a wooden chopstick. When the soil is ¾ to just fully dry, water your plant thoroughly. Depending on the set up, the size of the plant, and your space expect to care for your plant approximately every 7 to 14 days.
How much light does my Chinese Evergreen need?
Bright, indirect light is ideal for Chinese Evergreens, but they can also tolerate low-light conditions. An east-facing window works well. You can also place your plant a few feet back from a south- or west-facing window, or use a sheer curtain to diffuse the light.
North-facing windows or sunlit rooms without direct sunbeams can also work, but keep in mind that growth will be slower in lower light and the soil will take longer to dry out between waterings.
What’s the best temperature for Chinese Evergreen?
Chinese Evergreens do best in temperatures between 65–80°F. They’re a bit sensitive to drafts, so try to avoid placing them near air conditioning vents, heaters, or frequently opened doors.
Ongoing Care for Chinese Evergreens
What do I need to know before re-potting or propagating my Chinese Evergreen?
Chinese Evergreens don’t have especially sensitive roots, which makes home re-potting relatively easy.
They can be propagated through node cuttings or pups, though their thick root structure often takes a while to establish. Providing consistent water and humidity gives the best results.
What are some signs my Chinese Evergreen needs help?
Watch for downward-curling leaves, followed by a yellow “ticket” leaf—this often means the plant has dried out too much. On the other hand, a soft or bruised yellow or brown leaf usually signals the soil hasn’t had enough time to dry properly between waterings.
What ongoing care will my Chinese Evergreen need?
To keep your Chinese Evergreen healthy, we recommend scheduling a yearly root exam, especially if yellowing or drooping leaves persist. Regular maintenance like this helps you catch issues early and ensures your plant has the space and resources it needs to keep growing strong.
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