Aglaonema 'Snow White'

Aglaonema Stem Rot is a destructive bacterial or fungal disease that attacks the lower stem and crown of the plant, often affecting popular varieties like Aglaonema 'Snow White'. It causes the stem tissue to break down into a mushy, dark mess, cutting off water and nutrient flow to the foliage. Beginners often mistake the initial wilting or leaf yellowing for underwatering and add more water, which rapidly accelerates the decay. You will typically notice the stem base turning soft, brown, or black, accompanied by a distinct unpleasant odor near the soil line. In Indian homes, this issue surges during the humid monsoon season when soil stays wet for too long, or in air-conditioned rooms where low ambient temperatures prevent soil moisture from evaporating properly. Using dense potting soil without perlite or keeping plants in pots without drainage holes are major contributing factors.