Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond'

Description: Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond', scientifically known as Aglaonema 'First Diamond', is a popular houseplant celebrated for its attractive foliage and resilience in indoor environments. Belonging to the Araceae family, this cultivar features lush, lance-shaped leaves adorned with intricate patterns of silver and green. Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' is an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts, adding a touch of elegance to any indoor space.

🌿 Botanical Name: Aglaonema 'First Diamond'

🐾 Pet Warning: Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' is toxic to pets if ingested. Keep it out of reach of cats, dogs, and other animals.

💧 Care Level: Low to moderate. Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' is relatively easy to care for and thrives in typical indoor conditions.

📏 Approximate Size: Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) and can spread slightly wider with maturity.

☀️ Light: Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. Place it near a north- or east-facing window where it can receive filtered sunlight or artificial light.

💧 Water: Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter, allowing the soil to dry out more between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.

💦 Humidity: Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' thrives in moderate to high humidity levels. Increase humidity by misting the leaves regularly, using a humidifier, or placing the plant on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Grouping plants together can also help create a microclimate with higher humidity.

🌡️ Temperature: Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' prefers temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) and is sensitive to cold drafts and temperature extremes. Protect it from cold air conditioning vents and sudden temperature fluctuations.

❄️ Hardiness: Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12 and is best grown indoors in cooler climates.

🌱 Soil: Plant Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' in well-draining, peat-based potting mix with added perlite or sand to improve drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7) is ideal.

🌱 Fertilizing: Feed Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization frequency in the fall and winter.

🔄 Pruning: Remove yellow or damaged leaves promptly to maintain the plant's appearance and overall health. Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' is relatively low-maintenance and rarely requires extensive pruning.

🌱 Propagation: Chinese Evergreen 'First Diamond' can be propagated by stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch (10-15 cm) stem cuttings with at least one node and plant them in moist potting mix. Keep the cuttings warm and humid until new roots develop.