Aglaonema 'Mary Ann' Corky Brown Leaf Bases: Light, Temp & Disease Fixes

Persistent corky, brown, crumbly leaf bases/petioles on Aglaonema 'Mary Ann'—despite good humidity, careful watering, and multiple locations—point to light, temperature, or a subtle pathogen issue.

Primary Suspects

1. Light: Aglaonemas need bright indirect light (read-a-book level) but zero direct sun. Even brief sun exposure causes this corky scarring at leaf bases.
2. Temperature: Below 60°F (16°C) triggers similar damage. Check night temps near windows/porches.

Secondary: Mild Fungal/Bacterial Infection

If light/temp are correct, a low-level pathogen may be present. A Lysol spray regimen (original scent, not concentrate) has anecdotal success:

• Daily × 7 days
• Twice weekly × 3 weeks
• Spray foliage until lightly damp; avoid soil saturation.

Checklist for Your Plant

• ☐ No direct sun at any hour?
• ☐ Night temps consistently >60°F?
• ☐ Bright enough to read at plant level on cloudy days?
• ☐ Watering: top 1–2″ dry between thorough waterings?
• ☐ Well-draining mix (peat/perlite/bark)?

Correct light/temp first; if unresolved in 4–6 weeks, try Lysol treatment. New growth should emerge clean.