Aglaonema ‘Key Lime’ is a popular houseplant known for its striking foliage, featuring white and rippled striping with dappled green leaves outlined by lemony yellow veining. Its straightforward care makes it a good choice for indoor plant enthusiasts.
Key Lime Aglaonema Care
Light
Aglaonema ‘Key Lime’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Place the plant in a location with medium light to partial shade, as direct sunlight can burn its leaves. Lighter or scorched leaves indicate too much direct sun, requiring relocation. While tolerant of lower light, variegated varieties maintain their vibrant coloration best with adequate filtered brightness.
Watering
Water the plant when the top 25% to 50% of the soil has dried. Water thoroughly until liquid drains from the bottom of the pot. Promptly discard any accumulated water in the saucer to prevent root rot.
Soil
The ideal soil mix for Aglaonema ‘Key Lime’ is well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic (pH 5.5 to 6.5). A suitable blend includes peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite to enhance aeration, drainage, and moisture retention. This prevents waterlogging and protects the root system.
Temperature and Humidity
Aglaonema ‘Key Lime’ prefers average room temperatures, ideally between 18°C and 24°C (65-75°F). Shield the plant from cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can cause stress and browning. While tolerant of average indoor humidity, they thrive in higher levels, ideally 50-70%. Regular misting, using a pebble tray, or placing a humidifier nearby can help increase humidity.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring through early autumn), fertilize Aglaonema ‘Key Lime’ monthly with a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. A balanced NPK ratio supports overall plant health and foliage growth. During cooler months, reduce frequency to every six to eight weeks or cease fertilizing. Over-fertilizing can lead to salt buildup and root burn.
Addressing Common Key Lime Aglaonema Issues
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves often indicate improper soil moisture, typically overwatering. Excessive water can lead to root rot, impairing the plant’s ability to absorb nutrients. Other causes include insufficient light, nutrient deficiencies, or natural aging of older leaves. Adjusting watering habits and ensuring proper drainage can help resolve this issue.
Brown Leaf Tips or Edges
Brown leaf tips or edges often indicate low humidity, inconsistent watering, or minerals like fluoride in tap water. Dry air, overwatering, or underwatering can cause this symptom. Providing higher humidity and letting tap water sit overnight to dissipate chemicals can help.
Drooping Leaves
Drooping leaves signal watering or temperature stress. Underwatering causes leaves and stems to go limp as the plant dehydrates. Overwatering can also lead to drooping due to root rot, compromising the roots’ ability to support the plant. Exposure to cold drafts or sudden temperature changes can also cause leaves to droop.
Pests
Aglaonema ‘Key Lime’ can be susceptible to common houseplant pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Spider mites may cause yellow mottling and fine webbing, while mealybugs appear as white, cottony masses, often in leaf joints. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat affected areas with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Propagating Key Lime Aglaonema
Propagate Aglaonema ‘Key Lime’ through stem cuttings or division. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem with several leaves and at least one node. Cut a section 4-6 inches long, ensuring to include a node for root emergence. Remove any lower leaves that would be submerged in water or soil to prevent rot.
Cuttings can be rooted in water or a well-draining potting mix. For water rooting, place the cutting in a container with clean water, ensuring the node is submerged, and change the water every few days. For soil rooting, plant the cutting in a small pot filled with a moist, light potting mix. Maintain high humidity around the cutting by covering it with a plastic bag or dome, and place it in a warm, bright location away from direct sunlight. Roots typically develop within weeks, after which the new plant can be cared for as a mature specimen.
Repotting Key Lime Aglaonema
Repot Aglaonema ‘Key Lime’ every two to three years, or when it shows signs of being root-bound. Signs include roots emerging from drainage holes, roots circling the soil surface, or decreased growth. The best time to repot is during spring or early summer, coinciding with the plant’s active growing season.
When repotting, choose a pot that is only one size larger than the current container, typically 1-2 inches wider in diameter. Using a pot that is too large can lead to excessive moisture retention and potential root rot. Carefully remove the plant from its old pot, gently loosen any circling roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh, well-draining soil mix, ensuring the top of the root ball sits slightly below the rim.