The Pink Splash Aglaonema, also known as Chinese Evergreen, is a favored houseplant due to its striking appearance and straightforward care. This evergreen perennial features glossy, lance-shaped leaves with a mix of dark green and vibrant pink spots and splashes. Its appealing foliage and adaptability make it a popular choice for adding color indoors.
Pink Splash Aglaonema Care
Light Needs
The Pink Splash Aglaonema thrives in bright, indirect light. An east-facing window or a few feet from a west or south-facing window provides suitable light, offering gentle morning sun while avoiding harsh afternoon rays. Too little light may cause the vibrant pink coloration to fade and slow growth. Direct sunlight, especially strong afternoon sun, can scorch the leaves and should be avoided.
Watering
Proper watering is important, as the Pink Splash Aglaonema prefers consistently moist soil but dislikes being waterlogged. Water when the top 1-2 inches or about 50% of the soil feels dry. Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, then discard any excess water in the saucer to prevent root rot. Watering frequency varies by pot size and environmental conditions, with more frequent watering needed in warmer months.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining, aerated potting mix is important to prevent soggy conditions and root issues. A suitable mix includes potting soil with perlite, sand, or orchid bark to enhance drainage and air circulation. The ideal soil pH ranges from 6.0 to 6.5.
Temperature and Humidity
As a tropical plant, the Pink Splash Aglaonema prefers warm, stable temperatures, ideally 65-80°F (18-27°C). It is sensitive to cold drafts and temperatures below 60°F (16°C), which can cause stress or inhibit growth. The plant benefits from higher humidity, though it tolerates average household levels. If the air is dry, especially in winter, misting, grouping plants, or using a pebble tray can increase humidity.
Fertilizing
During its active growing season (spring through summer), the Pink Splash Aglaonema benefits from regular fertilization. Apply a general-purpose houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, monthly or every 4-6 weeks. Reduce feeding to once every couple of months in fall and withhold fertilizer in winter when growth slows. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn.
Repotting Your Pink Splash Aglaonema
Repotting is typically needed when the Pink Splash Aglaonema becomes root-bound, indicated by roots emerging from drainage holes. This plant prefers to be slightly root-bound and usually only requires repotting every 2-3 years. The best time is during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
Select a new container 1-2 inches larger in diameter with drainage holes. Gently remove the plant, loosen tightly bound roots, and place it into the new pot with fresh, well-draining mix. Water thoroughly after repotting to help the soil settle.
Propagating Pink Splash Aglaonema
Pink Splash Aglaonema can be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and use clean, sharp scissors or a blade to cut below a node. Remove leaves from the bottom, ensuring at least one bare node.
Place the cutting in water or directly into a well-draining potting mix. If in water, submerge the bottom 2-3 inches, changing water every few days to prevent algae. For soil, dipping the cut end in rooting hormone can enhance success before planting into moist soil. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, and place the cutting in a bright, indirectly lit area until roots develop, which takes a few weeks.
Common Issues and Solutions
Yellowing leaves often signal improper soil moisture, with overwatering being a frequent cause. Soggy soil leads to root rot and yellowing; ensure proper drainage and allow topsoil to dry between waterings. Underwatering also causes yellow, crispy leaves. Insufficient light can fade color or cause yellowing, while too much direct sun causes leaf burn.
Brown tips or edges often indicate low humidity or tap water issues (salts, chlorine, fluoride). Increase humidity via misting or a pebble tray. Letting tap water sit overnight can dissipate chemicals. Leggy growth (stretched stems, sparse leaves) indicates insufficient light; move to a brighter, indirectly lit area for denser growth.
Pink Splash Aglaonema can face pest infestations like spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale. Regular inspection, especially of leaf undersides, helps early detection. Insecticidal soap or neem oil are effective treatments. Manual removal with rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab can address mealybugs and scale.