Secrets to Thriving Aglaonema Siam Aurora for Lush Growth and Care

The Aglaonema ‘Siam Aurora’ is often recommended as a beginner-friendly houseplant. Yet, many owners find their plants merely surviving rather than thriving. The difference between a dull, sparse plant and one bursting with color and fullness lies in mastering three key care elements: light intensity, structural support, and watering strategy. This guide breaks down these essentials so you can grow your Aglaonema Siam Aurora into a lush, vibrant centerpiece.

Potted plant with green and red leaves placed on steps outdoors. Background shows another plant, grey siding, and a wooden chair.

The Light Spectrum Secret

Many care guides say Aglaonema Siam Aurora prefers low light. This advice is only partly true. While the plant can survive in dim corners, its signature red variegation—the striking "Lipstick" edges on the leaves—depends on receiving the right kind of light.

Where to place your plant

• Find a spot where the plant can see the sky but not direct sunlight. This means bright, indirect light is ideal.

• Avoid placing it in deep shade or behind thick curtains where light is scarce.

• Keep it away from windows with harsh, direct sun rays that can scorch the leaves.

  
  

Signs your plant needs adjustment

• New leaves growing solid green without red edges indicate the plant is not getting enough light.

• Leaves that appear bleached, crispy, or scorched show the plant is receiving too much direct sunlight.

  
  

By placing your Aglaonema in the right light, you encourage the red variegation to develop fully, giving the plant its unique, colorful appeal.

Potted plant with green and red leaves by a house wall. Surrounded by more plants and bricks in sunlight. © Ratha Kea visible.

Why the Stake and Tie Method Matters

If you look at healthy Aglaonema Siam Aurora plants, you might notice their stems are supported by small wooden stakes and ties. This technique is common among professional growers and offers several benefits.

Supporting heavy stems

• Aglaonema stems are thick and filled with water, making them heavy.

• Young plants or those recently repotted tend to lean or flop over, which stresses the roots.

  
  

Encouraging upright growth

• Using stakes and ties trains the plant to grow vertically.

• This prevents sprawling and creates a neat, bouquet-like shape.

• It also improves air circulation around the plant, reducing the risk of fungal issues.

  
  

To apply this method, gently insert a small wooden stake into the soil near the stem and loosely tie the stem to the stake with soft ties or plant tape. Check regularly to adjust ties as the plant grows.

The Touch Test Watering Technique

Watering is one of the most common challenges for plant owners. Instead of watering on a fixed schedule, use the "Touch Test" or Two-Inch Rule to decide when your Aglaonema needs water.

How to perform the Touch Test

• Insert your finger into the soil up to the second knuckle (about two inches deep).

• If the soil feels damp, wait before watering.

• If the soil feels dry, water the plant thoroughly.

  
  

Additional watering tips

• Always use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the tropical roots.

• Cold tap water can cause yellowing of the lower leaves.

• Water until it drains from the bottom of the pot, then empty excess water from the saucer to prevent root rot.

  
  

This approach ensures your plant receives water only when it needs it, promoting healthy root growth and preventing overwatering.

Vibrant plant with green and red-edged leaves in a black pot, set on tiled steps near rattan chairs. Text: © Ratha Kea.

Bringing It All Together for a Thriving Plant

By combining the right light, structural support, and watering technique, your Aglaonema Siam Aurora will move beyond survival to vibrant growth. Here’s a quick checklist to keep in mind:

• Place the plant in bright, indirect light where it can see the sky but not direct sun.

• Use stakes and ties to support stems and encourage upright growth.

• Water only when the top two inches of soil are dry, using room-temperature water.

  
  

With these steps, your plant will develop rich red edges, strong stems, and lush foliage that fills the space with color and life.