fungal infection on Chinese Evergreen
Quick answer
If your Chinese Evergreen has fungal infection, the most likely cause is: Fungal issues in Aglaonema fall into three categories: 1) Harmless saprophytic soil fungus appearing as white surface mold, driven by low airflow and organic soil decomposition; 2) Bacterial/Fungal leaf spot (Xanthomonas) caused by leaf moisture (misting) and high humidity; 3) Systemic stem rot from overwatering which compromises the plant's core vascular structure.
Start here:
- 1. Soil Mold: Gently scrape the top 1 inch of soil and discard; increase airflow with a fan and allow soil to dry 3 inches deep.
- 2. Leaf Spots: Prune affected leaves with sterilized shears; cease all leaf misting and apply a copper-based fungicide if spots spread.
Why Chinese Evergreen gets fungal infection
Aglaonema spp.
Fungal issues in Aglaonema fall into three categories: 1) Harmless saprophytic soil fungus appearing as white surface mold, driven by low airflow and organic soil decomposition; 2) Bacterial/Fungal leaf spot (Xanthomonas) caused by leaf moisture (misting) and high humidity; 3) Systemic stem rot from overwatering which compromises the plant's core vascular structure.
How to reverse fungal infection on Chinese Evergreen
- 1
Soil Mold: Gently scrape the top 1 inch of soil and discard; increase airflow with a fan and allow soil to dry 3 inches deep.
- 2
Leaf Spots: Prune affected leaves with sterilized shears; cease all leaf misting and apply a copper-based fungicide if spots spread.
- 3
Stem Rot: If the main stalk is mushy, it is likely too far gone; however, healthy green stem tips can be cut and propagated in water.
- 4
Environment: Maintain 40-60% humidity and provide bright indirect light to strengthen the plant's immune response.
Keep fungal infection off this Chinese Evergreen
Never mist Aglaonema leaves; use chunky potting media with orchid bark for root aeration; maintain consistent 65-75�F temperatures; quarantine new plants to prevent pathogen introduction.