Question
 Will,
I have an Aglaonema that started out as 4 starts in a 10" pot. It is now about 24" tall and 30" Dia. I would like to break it into 2 plants. What is the best way to deal with the roots? Can I cut them? Do I need to seperate them? I'm not a plant person so anything else I should do,i.e. proper soil,fertilizer? suggestions are welcome.
                           THANK YOU
                         TED CHRISMAN

Answer
Hi Ted,

Aglaonemas tend to get tall and leggy as they age. There is no way to prevent it, but there is a way to remedy it. Selectively prune the tallest one or two stems periodically. These pruned off stems can be rooted in soil or in water. That is the best way to get additional plants. New growth will emerge just below the point of the cut on the original stem. This selective pruning will keep the plant shorter, but more compact.

I don't recommend dividing Aglaonemas. Their roots are easily damaged unless you really know what you are doing. There is no good reason to do it. If you want more plants, then do it by taking cuttings.

Apparently you have had success so far with your Aglaonema, so I don't recommend that you make any changes other than those I mentioned above. Fertilizer is vastly overrated, especially for Aglaonemas.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: [email protected]

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