Chinese Evergreen Care Schedule
Aglaonema
7 recurring tasks keep a chinese evergreen in good shape, across 6 categories. Budget roughly $0–110 a year at typical U.S. prices; 7 of them you can do yourself.
Fertilizing
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize DIY | Every 2 mo | $0–15 | Feed every 6-8 weeks in spring and summer at half strength; it is a light, slow-growing feeder. |
Grooming
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rotate for Even Light DIY | Every 2 weeks | Free / DIY | Rotate every two weeks so the patterned leaves grow evenly; variegated types need a bit more light. |
| Dust Leaves DIY | Monthly | Free / DIY | Wipe the broad patterned leaves monthly with a damp cloth to keep colors vivid and dust-free. |
Pest
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pest Inspection DIY | Every 2 weeks | $0–10 | Inspect for spider mites and mealybugs, which appear when indoor air gets dry. |
Pruning
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remove Dead Growth DIY | Every 6 mo | Free / DIY | Trim yellow lower leaves and spent flowers at the base to keep the colorful foliage looking full. |
Repotting
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Repot DIY | Every 30 mo | $10–30 | Repot every 2-3 years; it grows slowly and is content being slightly root-bound. |
Watering
| Task | How often | Est. cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water DIY | Every 9 days | Free / DIY | Water every 7-10 days when the top inch dries; let it dry more in winter to avoid root rot in low light. |
Common questions
Is Chinese Evergreen toxic to cats and dogs?
Yes, the Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) is toxic to cats and dogs if chewed or swallowed, typically causing mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting. Keep it out of a pet's reach, and contact your veterinarian or a pet poison line if your pet ingests it.
How often does a chinese evergreen need maintenance?
A chinese evergreen has 7 recurring tasks across 6 categories, ranging from frequent, quick jobs to once-a-year items. The schedule below lists each one with how often it's due and what it typically costs.
How much does chinese evergreen upkeep cost per year?
Budget roughly $0–$110 a year at typical U.S. prices. 7 of the 7 tasks are DIY-friendly, which pulls the actual number toward the low end.
What chinese evergreen maintenance can I do myself?
7 of the 7 tasks here are marked DIY. Those are routine, low-cost jobs that don't need a pro. Each row below notes which is which.
Intervals and costs are typical-case estimates for U.S. owners; your climate, usage, and local prices will shift them. Information here is general reference only and may be estimated or AI-assisted. It is not professional advice. Verify with a qualified professional before acting, and use it at your own risk. See our Terms & Disclaimer.