Do aglaonema plants like sun or shade?

Aglaonema plants, also known as Chinese evergreens, have different preferences when it comes to sunlight. While they can tolerate low-light conditions, it’s important to note that their leaf variegation may fade if they are kept in the shade for extended periods of time. So, if you want your aglaonema to thrive with vibrant and variegated leaves, it’s best to place them in an area with bright indirect light.

Bright indirect light refers to the type of light that is not too harsh or direct. It could be an area near a window where the plant receives filtered sunlight through a curtain or blinds. This way, the aglaonema gets enough light to support its growth and maintain its beautiful foliage, but without the risk of scorched or discolored leaves from direct sunlight.

I personally have a few aglaonema plants in my home, and I’ve found that placing them near east-facing windows works well. They receive gentle morning sunlight, which is not too intense, and the rest of the day they are in bright indirect light. This has helped them maintain their variegation and stay healthy.

If you don’t have access to bright indirect light, don’t worry. Aglaonema plants are known for their adaptability and can still survive in lower light conditions. However, their growth may slow down, and the variegation on their leaves may become less pronounced. In such cases, you can supplement their light requirements by using artificial grow lights. These lights can mimic natural sunlight and provide the necessary light spectrum for the plant’s growth.

To summarize, aglaonema plants like bright indirect light to thrive and maintain their vibrant, variegated leaves. While they can tolerate low-light conditions, it’s best to avoid prolonged shade as it may cause the fading of leaf variegation. Keep them away from direct sunlight to prevent scorched or discolored leaves. Remember to observe your plants closely and make adjustments based on their specific needs.

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Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.