The Enchantress Plant (Aglaonema ‘Enchantress’) is a popular indoor plant. Its vibrant, patterned foliage makes it visually appealing for various indoor settings. Popular among both novice and experienced indoor gardeners, it’s a straightforward addition to many homes.
Caring for Your Enchantress Plant
Light
The Aglaonema ‘Enchantress’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Place it a few feet from a northern or eastern window. Direct sun can scorch leaves, causing them to yellow or brown. Lower light slows growth and reduces variegation.
Watering
The Aglaonema ‘Enchantress’ prefers evenly moist, not waterlogged, soil. Water when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Overwatering causes root rot, so ensure proper drainage. Allow excess water to drain from the pot and discard any standing water in the saucer.
Soil
Use well-draining, organic-rich, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5). A good potting mix includes peat, perlite, and vermiculite for aeration, drainage, and moisture retention. Orchid bark or coco coir can further enhance drainage and organic content. A pot with drainage holes is essential to prevent waterlogging.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintain consistent temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (12.8°C). Keep the plant away from heating/AC vents and open windows. They thrive in higher humidity, ideally 60-70%. Increase humidity by grouping plants, using a pebble tray, or a humidifier.
Fertilizing
Fertilize regularly during the spring and summer growing season. Apply a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, once a month. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup and root harm. Reduce or stop fertilization during fall and winter.
Pruning
Minimal pruning is needed for aesthetic maintenance and plant health. Remove yellow, damaged, or dead leaves to keep the plant tidy and redirect energy to healthy growth. Trim leggy stems just above a leaf node for bushier growth and a compact shape. Use clean, sharp tools for clean cuts and disease prevention.
Propagating Enchantress Plant
Propagate Aglaonema ‘Enchantress’ using stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two to three leaves and one visible node. Make a diagonal cut about half an inch below a node using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Remove lower leaves to prevent rotting in water or soil.
Root cuttings in water or soil. For water, place the cutting in room-temperature water, keeping leaves above the waterline. Change water every few days. For soil, prepare a well-draining mix (potting soil, perlite, orchid bark) and insert the cutting 1-2 inches deep into moistened soil. Rooting hormone can encourage faster root development. Place new plants in a warm spot with bright, indirect light, maintaining consistent soil moisture.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Yellowing leaves often indicate improper soil moisture, usually overwatering. Soft, yellow leaves suggest waterlogged conditions and root rot. Crispy, dry yellow leaves signal underwatering or low humidity. Nutrient deficiency can also cause general yellowing.
Brown leaf tips or edges signal low humidity, inconsistent watering, or fluoride in tap water. Increase humidity with pebble trays or humidifiers. Ensure consistent watering, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Lack of new growth can stem from insufficient light, low temperatures, or inadequate fertilization. Move the plant to a brighter, indirect light location within its preferred 65-80°F temperature range to stimulate growth. During the growing season, a regular, diluted feeding regimen provides necessary nutrients.
Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. They feed on plant sap, causing yellowing and wilting. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can control them. Regularly inspect the plant, especially leaf undersides, for early detection.