Aglaonema Maria 6”

Light Requirements
- Low to Medium Indirect Light: Aglaonema 'Tigress' is highly adaptable to low-light conditions but will grow faster and maintain brighter foliage in medium to bright indirect light. It is perfect for shaded corners or offices with fluorescent lighting.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and fade the variegation. Always keep it in indirect or filtered light.

Watering
- Moderate Watering: Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. Aglaonema 'Tigress' prefers slightly moist soil but is prone to root rot if overwatered. Ensure the soil dries out between waterings.
- Filtered or Distilled Water: Aglaonemas can be sensitive to chemicals in tap water, like chlorine and fluoride, so it’s best to use filtered or distilled water when possible.
- Humidity: While it tolerates average indoor humidity levels, 'Tigress' appreciates higher humidity. Mist the plant occasionally or place it near a humidity tray to keep its foliage vibrant.

Soil
- Well-Draining Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of standard indoor plant soil with added perlite or sand for better aeration and drainage.
- Avoid Waterlogged Soil: Ensure the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape, as standing water can quickly lead to root rot.

Temperature
- Warm Temperatures: Aglaonema 'Tigress' prefers warm indoor temperatures between 65-80°F. It does not tolerate cold temperatures or drafts, so avoid exposing it to temperatures below 60°F.
- Stable Environment: Keep the plant away from air conditioning vents, cold drafts, and heaters, as it thrives best in stable, warm environments.

Fertilization
- Balanced Fertilizer: Fertilize the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer, such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Cut back on fertilizing during the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.
- Dilute Fertilizer: Always dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid root burn or overfeeding.

Pruning
- Minimal Pruning: Prune the plant as needed to remove yellow, dead, or damaged leaves. This will help promote new growth and maintain the plant’s appearance.
- Encourage Bushiness: Trim leggy stems to encourage the plant to grow fuller and more compact.

Repotting
- Repot Every 1-2 Years: Repot Aglaonema 'Tigress' every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time for repotting. Choose a pot that is slightly larger and has good drainage.
- Use Fresh Soil: When repotting, replace the old soil with fresh, well-draining potting mix to promote healthy root development.

Propagation
- Division: The easiest way to propagate Aglaonema 'Tigress' is by dividing the plant. During repotting, carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections and plant them individually.
- Stem Cuttings: You can also propagate the plant through stem cuttings. Cut a healthy stem and root it in water or moist soil until roots develop, then transplant it into a pot.

Common Issues
- Yellowing Leaves: This can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Check the soil moisture and drainage, and adjust watering accordingly.
- Brown Leaf Tips: This can result from low humidity, underwatering, or exposure to chemicals in tap water. Increase humidity and use distilled or filtered water if necessary.
- Pests: Aglaonema 'Tigress' is generally resistant to pests, but it can sometimes attract spider mites, mealybugs, or aphids. Inspect the plant regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Toxicity
- Toxic to Pets and Humans: Like other Aglaonema varieties, 'Tigress' is toxic if ingested, so keep it out of reach of pets and children