CALATHEA PLANT CARE

Caring for a Calathea plant indoors involves attention to specific factors to ensure its stunning foliage remains healthy and vibrant. Here's a detailed guide:

Sunlight

  • Indirect Light: Calatheas prefer bright, indirect light. Place them near a window with filtered sunlight or in a location where they receive bright, indirect light for most of the day. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
  • Low-Light Tolerance: Some varieties of Calathea can tolerate lower light conditions, but they still need some brightness to thrive.

Watering

  • Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Calatheas prefer slightly more moisture than some other houseplants.
  • Watering Method: Water at the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the leaves, which can lead to fungal diseases. Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
  • Avoid tap water: Calathea prefer rainwater, filtered or organic water. As sometimes the chemicals in the tap water can be too harsh for the Calathea.

Humidity

  • High Humidity: Calatheas thrive in high humidity environments. Increase humidity by:

-Using a humidifier.

-Placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.

-Grouping plants together to create a more humid microclimate.

-Misting the leaves occasionally.

  • Pebble Tray: Placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water can help increase humidity around the plant.

Temperature

  • Warm Temperatures: Maintain temperatures between 18-27°C. Avoid exposing Calatheas to temperatures below 15°C or cold drafts, as they are sensitive to temperature fluctuations.