Chinese Evergreen at a Glance

Care factor What Chinese Evergreen wants
Light low to bright indirect light; keep it out of hot, direct sun
Water water deeply only when the soil has dried out completely, roughly every 14 days in the growing season, and far less in winter
Temperature comfortable around 60–85°F (16–29°C)
Humidity it likes a humid spot or a pebble tray
Soil a standard peat-free houseplant mix
Difficulty very easy -- great for beginners
Pet safe no -- keep it away from cats and dogs

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema commutatum) is a favourite among indoor gardeners because pink and red cultivars need a touch more light to keep colour..

Light Needs

Chinese Evergreen wants low to bright indirect light; keep it out of hot, direct sun. It cleans indoor air in NASA's famous clean-air study.

Watering

water deeply only when the soil has dried out completely, roughly every 14 days in the growing season, and far less in winter. Note The sap or leaves can irritate pets if chewed, so site it out of reach.

Soil and Pot

Use a standard peat-free houseplant mix. A pot with a real drainage hole is non-negotiable -- sitting in water is the fastest way to lose a Chinese Evergreen.

Temperature and Humidity

It is happiest around comfortable around 60–85°F (16–29°C). it likes a humid spot or a pebble tray.

How to Propagate Chinese Evergreen

The easiest method is with a stem cutting left to callus then rooted or splitting the clump at repotting. Let any cut surface dry for a day or two before it touches soil or water, then keep it barely moist until roots appear.

Common Problems and Fixes

  • Leaning or stretched growth -- it wants more light. Move it brighter or add a grow light.
  • Mushy, yellow base -- overwatering. Let it dry out and check the roots.
  • Brown, crispy edges -- usually low humidity or salt build-up; flush the soil and raise humidity a little.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I water Chinese Evergreen?

A:

water deeply only when the soil has dried out completely, roughly every 14 days in the growing season, and far less in winter.

Q: Is Chinese Evergreen safe for pets?

A:

no -- keep it away from cats and dogs.

Q: What light is best?

A:

low to bright indirect light; keep it out of hot, direct sun.

Q: How do I make more of it?

A:

With a stem cutting left to callus then rooted or splitting the clump at repotting.

Q: Why are the leaves changing colour?

A:

A little colour shift with the seasons is normal; dramatic scorch means too much direct sun, while fading to plain green means it wants more light.

Chinese Evergreen rewards a little attention with years of easy beauty. For a personalised schedule, try our free watering calculator and pair it with the light calculator to pick the perfect spot.