Aglaonema, commonly known as Chinese Evergreen, is a popular houseplant celebrated for its striking foliage and adaptability. These plants thrive in various indoor conditions, making them a favored choice for many plant enthusiasts. Beyond traditional soil cultivation, Aglaonema can be grown successfully in water, offering a unique and often lower-maintenance alternative.
Growing Aglaonema in Water
Cultivating Aglaonema in water begins with selecting the right plant material. For new plants, choose a healthy stem cutting, 4-6 inches long, with at least one leaf node present, as roots emerge from these nodes. If transitioning an existing plant from soil, carefully remove it from its pot and gently clean all soil from its root system under running water, taking care not to damage the delicate roots.
Once you have a clean cutting or a soil-free plant, remove any leaves that would fall below the waterline. Submerged leaves can decompose, leading to bacterial growth and root rot. A clear glass container is preferred for water cultivation, allowing easy observation of root development and water levels.
Fill the container with clean, room-temperature water. Distilled, filtered, or rainwater is recommended over tap water, as tap water can contain chemicals like chlorine that may be detrimental to the plant. Position the plant or cutting so only the nodes or roots are submerged, ensuring the foliage remains above the water surface.
Caring for Water-Grown Aglaonema
Ongoing care for Aglaonema grown in water centers on maintaining water quality and providing essential nutrients. Regular water changes prevent stagnation, bacterial growth, and algae buildup. Change the water every two to three weeks, or weekly for optimal health, ensuring the roots receive clean, oxygenated water. If algae forms on the container, clean it thoroughly before refilling.
Since water alone does not provide all necessary nutrients, a liquid plant food formulated for hydroponic systems is required. Add a diluted solution, at half the recommended strength, about once a month to support growth. Aglaonema prefers bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch leaves and promote algae growth. The plant thrives in warm environments, between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C), and appreciates higher humidity. Regularly inspect roots for signs of decay, such as mushiness or discoloration, and trim affected parts to prevent further issues.
Benefits and Considerations of Water Cultivation
Growing Aglaonema in water offers several advantages. Transparent containers allow a clear view of the root system, which can be aesthetically pleasing and provide an easy way to monitor root health. This method can also reduce common houseplant issues such as soil-borne pests like fungus gnats, as there is no soil for them to inhabit. Water cultivation means less mess compared to traditional potting, and it simplifies the watering routine, as you can easily observe when the water level is low.
While beneficial, water cultivation also comes with specific considerations. Plants grown exclusively in water require a consistent supply of nutrients through liquid fertilizer, which is not naturally present in water. Algae growth can occur in the container, particularly if exposed to too much light, which can compete with the plant for nutrients and oxygen. The risk of root rot remains if water is not changed frequently enough, leading to stagnant conditions.
Mineral buildup from tap water can also occur. Plants rooted in water may not transition well to soil later, as their water-grown roots are structurally different from soil roots. Growth in water might be slower compared to optimized soil conditions, and not all Aglaonema varieties may adapt equally well to this method.