Silver Queen plants (Aglaonema commutatum) are an old standby in the ornamental plant industry. Originating in Asian (Knight, n.d.), this plant has been around for many years and been a part of many indoor decor plans. Let’s take a moment to touch on the key factors for successful Silver Queen growth.
Silver Queen is known to tolerate low levels of light. This can be a very desirable feature indeed! And while it is true that silver queen can handle low light better than many plants, the everyday growth environment should still consist of moderate indirect light. In addition to causing growth difficulties, insufficient light can actually cause Silver Queen to lose some of their beautiful characteristic leaf pattern (Martha, 2010).
When watering your Silver Queen, use this rule: if in doubt, wait it out. It’s better to keep plants slightly under-watered than over-watered, and this is especially true with Silver Queen. A successful watering schedule for Silver Queen is not difficult, but if the plant is habitually over-watered, it will quickly succumb to root rot.
A simple fertilization schedule will help keep your Silver Queen healthy and spry, and consistent warmth will also give it an edge. For starters, use a balanced fertilizer applied at 1/2 recommended rate several times throughout the spring and summer. Withhold fertilizer entirely during the times of slower winter growth, and provide year-round warmth for your plant. Silver Queen do not handle cold drafts well.
That sums it up for this long-time indoor favorite. Maybe you already have this plant in your collection, or maybe you’re thinking about adding it. Whatever the situation, it is our prayer that with these tips will encourage you in your plant journey and help you find success.
Sources
Degnan, S. (2020). The Indoor Care of a Silver Queen Plant. Retrieved 8/2/21 from https://homeguides.sfgate.com/indoor-care-silver-queen-plant-67333.html
Knight, T. (n.d.). Aglaonema (Chinese Evergreens). Retrieved 8/2/21 from https://www.ourhouseplants.com/plants/aglaonema-chinese-evergreen
Martha (2010). Aglaonema ‘Silver Queen.’ Retrieved 8/2/21 from https://plowingthroughlife.blogspot.com/2010/12/fridays-flower-pot-aglaonema-silver.html#.YQgZVu1OnjA