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How To Care for Calathea
Calathea plants, with their striking patterns and vibrant colors, are true showstoppers in the world of houseplants.
These tropical beauties, also known as prayer plants, are beloved for their visually stunning foliage that seems almost painted by nature itself.
Calatheas not only add a touch of exotic flair to your indoor space but also purify the air, making them as functional as they are beautiful.
While they have a reputation for being somewhat finicky, with the right care, your Calathea can thrive and become a centerpiece in your plant collection.
How To Care for Calathea Key Takeaways
- Place in bright, indirect light.
- Use a well-draining mix of coco coir and perlite.
- Water when top inch of soil is dry.
- Maintain temperatures between 65-80°F and high humidity above 60%.
- Fertilize monthly during growing season.
- Clean leaves regularly and prune as needed.
- Calatheas are tropical plants that require consistent moisture and humidity.
Calathea Plant Care Reference Guide:
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Calathea, Prayer Plant (though technically different from true Prayer Plants) |
| Botanical Name | Calathea spp. |
| Native Habitat | Tropical rainforests of South America |
| Plant Type | Perennial evergreen |
| Growth Pattern | Upright with striking, patterned leaves that fold at night |
| Mature Size | 12–24 inches tall and wide, depending on species |
| Watering | Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy; prefers distilled or rainwater to avoid mineral buildup |
| Light/Sun Exposure | Bright, indirect light; avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch |
| Soil Type | Well-draining potting mix with organic matter |
| Soil pH | Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0) |
| Temperature | 65–80°F (18–27°C); avoid temperatures below 60°F (15°C) |
| Humidity | High humidity; thrives in 50% or higher |
| Bloom Time & Flower Color | Rare indoors; small flowers that are typically white or purple |
| Potential Problems | Brown leaf edges (low humidity), yellowing leaves (overwatering), pests like spider mites or mealybugs |
| Repotting | Every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot |
| Hardiness Zones (USDA) | Zones 11–12 (typically grown as a houseplant outside these zones) |
Caring For Calthea Plants Easy Prayer Plant Guide
Calathea plants, often admired for their intricate, patterned leaves and unique ability to fold their foliage at night, bring a touch of tropical elegance to any space.
Though sometimes mistaken for true Prayer Plants(Maranta), Calatheas have earned their own spotlight for their vibrant colors and striking designs.
While they’re known to be a bit fussy, understanding their preferences for light, water, and humidity makes them much easier to care for.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to help your Calathea thrive, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned plant enthusiast.
Light Requirements
Calatheas are native to the forest floors of tropical regions, which means they’re adapted to filtered, dappled light.
In your home, they prefer bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can fade their vibrant colors and scorch their leaves.
On the other hand, too little light can result in slower growth and less pronounced leaf patterns.
A north or east-facing window is often ideal, or a few feet back from a south or west-facing window with sheer curtains to filter the light.
Soil and Watering
The key to keeping your Calathea happy lies in providing the right soil moisture without waterlogging the roots.
A well-draining potting mix is crucial, and a combination of coco coir and perlite is an excellent choice for these plants.
Coco coir, made from coconut husks, retains moisture while allowing excess water to drain, and perlite improves aeration and prevents soil compaction.
Here’s a recommended mix ratio:
- 60% coco coir
- 30% perlite
- 10% compost or worm castings for added nutrients
This mixture mimics the Calathea’s natural growing conditions, providing the perfect balance of moisture retention and drainage.
When it comes to watering, Calatheas prefer consistently moist soil but are sensitive to overwatering. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The “finger test” is a reliable method:
1. Insert your index finger into the soil up to the first knuckle.
2. If it feels dry at your fingertip, it’s time to water.
3. If you feel moisture, wait a day or two before checking again.
When you do water, do so thoroughly until water runs out of the drainage holes, then empty the saucer.
Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals in tap water, so using distilled water, rainwater, or allowing tap water to sit out overnight before using can help prevent leaf browning.
Temperature and Humidity
Calatheas thrive in warm, humid conditions similar to their tropical origins. They prefer temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and don’t tolerate cold drafts or sudden temperature changes well.
Humidity is crucial for Calatheas. They need high humidity levels, ideally above 60%. In most homes, this means taking extra steps to increase humidity:
1. Use a pebble tray filled with water beneath the plant.
2. Group plants together to create a microclimate.
3. Run a humidifier near your Calathea.
4. Mist the leaves regularly, but not excessively, as constantly wet leaves can lead to fungal issues.
Ongoing Maintenance
Regular care will keep your Calathea looking its best:
1. Dust the leaves gently with a soft, damp cloth to keep them clean and allow for better photosynthesis. This also helps you spot any pest issues early.
2. Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
3. Prune any yellow or brown leaves at the base of the stem to maintain the plant’s appearance and energy.
4. Rotate your Calathea every few weeks to ensure even growth, as these plants tend to grow towards the light source.
5. Keep an eye out for common pests like spider mites, which are particularly fond of Calatheas. Regular inspection and maintaining high humidity can help prevent infestations.
Propagation
Calatheas are typically propagated through division, which is best done during repotting in spring:
1. Carefully remove the plant from its pot and gently shake off excess soil.
2. Look for natural divisions in the root ball or separate sections with multiple stems.
3. Using clean, sharp tools, carefully separate the plant into smaller sections, ensuring each has a good root system and several leaves.
4. Pot each division into a new container with the coco coir and perlite mix described earlier.
5. Water thoroughly and place in a warm, humid spot with bright, indirect light.
6. Treat the new plants as you would a mature Calathea, but be extra attentive to their watering needs as they establish.
How To Care for Calathea Plants Conclusion
Caring for a Calathea can be a rewarding experience for plant enthusiasts. While they may require a bit more attention than some other houseplants, the payoff is well worth it.
Their stunning foliage and air-purifying qualities make them a valuable addition to any indoor space.
By providing the right balance of light, moisture, and humidity, and using a well-draining growing medium like coco coir and perlite, you can create an environment where your Calathea will not only survive but thrive.
With patience and consistent care, your Calathea will reward you with lush, vibrant foliage that brings a touch of tropical paradise into your home.
Read more: Best Indirect Sunlight Plants: A Comprehensive Guide
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- This plant comes fully rooted in a 3" pot, ready to grow in and your beautiful home or your office.
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- Perfect gift for any occassion!
Last update on 2025-04-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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