Aglaonema 'Red Valentine'

Care for aroid canes, roots and new growth

• Propagation: Divide a well-rooted basal shoot during repotting, or root a cane section with at least one healthy node in warm, lightly moist substrate.
• Light: Use medium to bright indirect light. Turn the pot occasionally if light comes mainly from one side, and protect the broad leaves from strong sun through glass.
• Watering: Water when the surface layer is dry and the pot has become lighter, moistening the root ball evenly without leaving the cane bases in a persistently wet centre.
• Temperature, humidity and airflow: Keep Aglaonema ‘Red Valentine’ in steady indoor warmth and away from chilling temperatures. Moderate indoor humidity is normally enough; use a humidifier only if persistently dry air causes recurring brown edges.
• Feeding: Use a complete houseplant fertiliser at a low dose while growth is active. Feed less often whenever growth slows, regardless of the season, and never fertilise a dry root ball or a stressed plant.
• Leaf and crown care: Keep the spreading crown clear of walls and neighbouring foliage so new leaves are not bent as they open.

Root, stem and leaf problems in Aglaonema 'Red Valentine'

• Scorched pink sections: Dry pale patches on the most exposed tissue indicate direct sun or heat. Move the plant into filtered light and compare the distribution with the sunburn guide
• Brown tips: Check watering consistency, airflow from heat sources and fertiliser deposits. Use deeper moisture and pot weight together, since the dry surface alone does not show the condition of the root ball.
• Root decay: Wilting in wet substrate with a loose base or soft dark roots confirms damage. Inspect the full root system before removing roots or repotting, and retain every firm pale root that remains connected to healthy tissue. With the healthy part of the root system identified, remove dead roots and use a pot matched to the healthy root system.
• Pests: Inspect the undersides and petiole bases for thrips, spider mites, mealybugs and scale.

Aglaonema ‘Red Valentine’ is toxic to pets

• Aglaonema ‘Red Valentine’ is toxic to cats and dogs.
• Chewing releases insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause immediate mouth pain, drooling and difficulty swallowing.
• Contact a veterinarian promptly after suspected chewing, especially if swelling or breathing problems occur.

Aglaonema: a shining filament in Greek

Aglaonema combines Greek aglaos, meaning shining or splendid, with nema, meaning thread or filament.