Question
Hello,
I have been having a problem with my Aglaonema 'Mary Ann' ever since I got it 2 years ago. The edges of the leaves at the base near the petiole get corky brown colored, dry and crumbly. Sometimes the petiole will get corky brown colored lines on it. The plant is otherwise healthy with lots of new growth. The new leaves start unblemished but before long they too have the same problem as the older leaves. I do not think it is caused by low humidity. I have a pebble tray under it and the problem continued during the high humidity of summer while the plant was outside on my screened in porch. I have had this problem not only at the house I live in now but also the house I lived in before so I know it is not the house. I use Miracle Gro potting soil and I add extra perlite and some vermiculite to it. I water my plants carefully and, if anything, I tend to underwater. There is no sign of root rot or any other condition that I can see. What could be the cause of this problem and what can I do about it?
Thanks
Tracy

Answer
Tracy,

Lets talk light, it does not like sun, no sun should touch the leaves, but the light does need to be bright enough to read sitting where it sits. Also it hates temperatures below 60 degrees. Either light or temperature could be causing your problem.

Also there could be a mild fungal or bacterial infection. I am not an expert on plant epidemiology but I have found that Lysol Spray (or the generic equilavent) sprayed daily for a week then twice a week for 3 more weeks helps any plant that I suspect may have a fungal or bacterial infection.

So check the lighting and the temperature and if those are not the problem try the spray. Good luck.

Darlene