The Siam Aurora Aglaonema, a Chinese Evergreen cultivar, is a popular houseplant known for its vibrant, variegated foliage. Its leaves display a captivating blend of deep green, pink, and red hues, making it a favored choice for enhancing indoor spaces. Its adaptability and attractive appearance contribute to its widespread appeal.
Siam Aurora Aglaonema Care
Light
The Siam Aurora Aglaonema thrives in bright, indirect light, which maintains its colorful foliage. Direct sunlight can scorch its delicate leaves, causing dry, brown spots. While it tolerates lower light, prolonged insufficient light may fade its vibrant colors, resulting in duller leaves and slower growth.
Water
Water the Siam Aurora Aglaonema thoroughly when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry. Overwatering, which keeps the soil consistently wet, can lead to root rot. Ensure the pot has drainage holes. Reduce watering frequency during cooler months when growth slows.
Soil
A well-draining potting mix is suitable for the Siam Aurora Aglaonema. An ideal mix includes peat-based potting soil combined with aerating components like perlite or pumice, creating a light, airy substrate. Pine bark or orchid bark can also enhance drainage. A ratio of three parts potting soil to one part perlite or pumice provides adequate aeration while retaining moisture.
Temperature and Humidity
The Siam Aurora Aglaonema prefers warm environments, with an ideal temperature range of 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is sensitive to cold and should not be exposed to temperatures below 60°F (15°C). Keep the plant away from drafts and heating or air conditioning vents to maintain a stable environment. While it enjoys high humidity, ideally over 65%, it adapts to lower home humidity. To increase humidity, mist leaves regularly or place the plant on a pebble tray.
Fertilizer
During its active growing season (spring and summer), the Siam Aurora Aglaonema benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer applied monthly is appropriate. Diluting the fertilizer to half-strength prevents salt buildup, which could burn the plant’s roots. Reduce or cease fertilization in fall and winter as growth slows.
Repotting Your Siam Aurora Aglaonema
Repotting the Siam Aurora Aglaonema becomes necessary when the plant shows signs of being root-bound or exhibits stunted growth. Indicators include roots emerging from drainage holes or a noticeable slowdown in its growth rate. The best time for repotting is typically during spring or early summer, aligning with the plant’s active growth period.
When repotting, select a new pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, usually one size up, to provide adequate room for root expansion without overwhelming the plant with too much soil. Gently remove the plant from its old pot and inspect the root ball. Place a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix at the bottom of the new pot, position the plant, and then fill around the root ball with more fresh soil, ensuring it is at the same depth as in its previous container.
Propagating Siam Aurora Aglaonema
Propagating the Siam Aurora Aglaonema can be achieved through stem cuttings or division. For stem cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut a 4 to 8-inch piece, ensuring at least one node is present on the cutting. Remove any lower leaves to expose the nodes, as these are the points where new roots will emerge.
Cuttings can be rooted in water by placing them in a jar with submerged nodes, changing the water every few days to maintain freshness. Alternatively, cuttings can be placed directly into a light, well-draining potting mix. Once roots have developed, or if propagating by division, plant the new sections into individual pots with appropriate soil. Maintain consistent moisture in the soil, but avoid waterlogging, until the new plantlets are established and show signs of independent growth.
Common Problems and Solutions
The Siam Aurora Aglaonema is generally resilient, but issues can arise. Yellowing leaves often signal improper soil moisture (overwatering leading to root rot), too much direct sunlight, or nutrient deficiencies. Adjust watering to allow soil to dry and ensure appropriate light.
Browning leaf tips indicate low humidity, excessive fertilizer, or fluoride in tap water. Increase humidity by misting or using a pebble tray, and consider distilled or rainwater. Stunted growth may suggest inadequate light or being root-bound, requiring a brighter location or repotting.
Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and aphids. Regularly inspect and wipe foliage to manage infestations. For persistent pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.