Dealing with Aglaonemas Plant Diseases: Identification and Treatment

Aglaonemas also known as Chinese Evergreen are one of the most popular houseplants thanks to their lush green foliage and easy care requirements. However, like all plants, aglaonemas can fall prey to diseases that impact their health and appearance. As an aglaonema owner, it’s important to be able to identify common diseases so you can take prompt action. Read on to learn about the most prevalent aglaonemas diseases, their causes, symptoms, and treatment.

Common Aglaonema Diseases

Here are some of the most common diseases that affect aglaonemas:

Leaf Spot

Leaf spot is one of the most widespread diseases in aglaonemas. It is caused by a fungal infection and manifests as dark, irregular spots scattered across the leaves. The spots may vary in size and have a yellowish margin. Over time, the lesions expand and affected leaves turn yellow and fall off.

To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy any infected leaves. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering which spreads spores. In severe cases, use of appropriate fungicides may be required to get the problem under control.

Root Rot

Root rot is another common fungal disease in aglaonemas. It is often caused by overwatering which leads to soggy soil. Poorly draining soil also promotes development of root rot. The fungus causes the roots to turn brown and mushy leading to stunted growth. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting despite watering, and slowed growth.

To treat root rot, remove the plant from infected soil, trim off diseased roots and repot in a sterile, well-draining mix. Reduce watering frequency and ensure the soil is dry before watering again Fungicides applied as a soil drench can also help control root rot.

Bacterial Leaf Spot

Bacterial leaf spot manifests as water-soaked lesions on the leaves which later turn brown or black. The spots may be surrounded by a yellow halo. Left untreated, the disease causes leaves to curl, wilt and drop.

Since bacteria cannot be treated with fungicides, affected leaves need to be promptly removed. Avoid overhead watering and maintain good air flow. Check new plants closely for signs of infection before bringing home. Sterilize pruners after cutting away diseased leaves.

Mealybugs

Though not a disease, mealybugs are common sap-sucking pests in aglaonemas. They appear as tiny white cottony masses on the stems and undersides of leaves. A heavy infestation causes yellowing, wilting and loss of plant vigor.

Isolate infested plants and use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to gently rub off visible mealybugs. Apply insecticidal soap spray or neem oil solution repeatedly to kill bugs and eggs. Ensure stems and leaf axils are thoroughly treated.

Scale Insects

Like mealybugs, scale insects are another common pest problem. These immobile insects attach themselves to stems and foliage and suck plant sap. They cause yellow speckling on leaves and stunted growth.

Prune off heavily infested parts. Use a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol to dislodge scales. Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap sprays every 5-7 days to suffocate scales. Ensure undersides of leaves are thoroughly sprayed.

Key Tips for Prevention

Follow these tips to keep your aglaonemas healthy and prevent diseases:

• Inspect new plants closely before purchasing. Avoid plants with spots, oozing lesions or pest infestations.

• Quarantine new plants for 2-4 weeks before placing with existing plants.

• Provide well-draining, sterile soil mix and avoid overwatering.

• Water early in the day so leaves dry out before night.

• Prune away old, dead or dying foliage which can harbor pests and diseases.

• Provide good air circulation with fans or proper spacing between plants.

• Keep leaves dry by avoiding overhead watering.

• Sterilize shears and pruners in bleach solution after use.

• Use sticky traps to monitor for pests like fungus gnats.

• Remove and destroy severely infected plants to prevent spread.

What to Do if Your Plant is Diseased

If you suspect your aglaonema has a disease, take these steps:

• Isolate the affected plant to prevent spreading.

• Identify the problem by closely examining leaves, roots, stems and soil. Compare symptoms to descriptions above.

• Remove and discard severely infected plants or plant parts.

• Treat the disease according to the guidelines above.

• Sterilize pots, trays and pruning shears to destroy pathogens.

• Maintain optimal growing conditions after treatment.

• Monitor weekly to ensure disease is under control.

When to Seek Expert Help

In most cases, the tips above will help you successfully treat aglaonema diseases at home. However, if problems persist despite treatment, or if you are unsure of the cause, do not hesitate to contact your local nursery or extension office. They can accurately diagnose the issue using lab tests and recommend targeted solutions. Seeking timely help can prevent diseases from escalating out of control.

Growing healthy, thriving aglaonemas involves being vigilant and acting quickly at the first signs of disease. Pay close attention to your plants, follow preventative practices, and implement prompt treatment when required. With some care and diligence, you can have gorgeous, disease-free aglaonemas adorning your indoor spaces.