How to care for newly purchased Aglaonema
As a star variety of indoor ornamental leaf plants, Aglaonema is deeply loved by gardening enthusiasts for its colorful leaves. The newly purchased plant needs to go through an environmental adaptation period, and the scientific care during this stage will directly affect the subsequent growth status. This article will systematically analyze the key care elements from temperature and humidity control to light management.
Four key care elements of Aglaonema
Accurate temperature control
The optimal growth temperature range needs to be maintained at 25-30℃, and the minimum temperature at night should not be lower than 18℃. It is recommended to use a digital thermometer and hygrometer for real-time monitoring for new plants, and keep them away from windows and doors in winter. When the temperature is below 15℃, the leaves will show edge necrosis, and an insulating cover can be added for emergency treatment.
Water gradient management
Adopt the watering principle of 'wet after dry', and water thoroughly when the topsoil 2cm is dry. It is recommended to use a long-spouted pot to slowly pour water along the pot edge, combined with 2-3 times of atomized humidification per week (humidity maintained at 60-70%). Be sure to regularly clean the leaf stomata with a soft cloth to improve photosynthetic efficiency.
Nutrition supplement strategy
No fertilizer should be applied to new plants within the first 30 days, and after new buds sprout, start using a diluted 1500 times liquid fertilizer for ornamental leaf plants. During the growing period, supplement a compound fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every 15 days, and stop fertilizing during the winter dormancy period. Be especially careful that the fertilizer does not come into contact with aerial roots.
Light and shadow balance principle
Scattered light of 3000-5000lux is required, which can be accurately measured by a light meter. It is recommended to use a gauze with a light transmission rate of 40% for light filtering, and ensure 4-6 hours of soft light exposure every day. A window sill facing southeast is the best placement area, and the pot should be rotated 180° weekly to ensure even light exposure.
By establishing a three-dimensional care system of temperature, humidity, and light, combined with scientific fertilizer and water management, the newly purchased Aglaonema can complete the environmental adaptation within 2-3 weeks. It is recommended to check the root development every month and replace the breathable mixed matrix (peat: perlite = 3:1) in time to create a continuously healthy growth environment for the plant.