Calathea Care guide

Kalathia

Family: Marantaceae
Latin name: Calathea

One of the most beautiful indoor plants, they add color and textures to any part of the house or office. Even the underside of the leaves adds extra decorative value.

Sometimes the proper maintenance of a Calathea can be difficult, but if one understands the basic needs of the varieties, then they will be rewarded with a feast of colors and foliage for many years.

Known as 'Prayer Plants' due to the movement of their leaves, a phenomenon scientifically known as "nyctinasty". The leaves sway during the day primarily to capture the maximum amount of light. At night, the leaves gather upwards and lower during the day so that light can be absorbed by the maximum surface area of the leaves.

Friendly and safe for pets.

LIGHT

Moderate to intense lighting intensity is ideal for Calatheas. They can tolerate lower intensity lighting, but intense lighting helps maintain the proper coloration of the leaves. Direct exposure to sunlight should be avoided as it can cause burns on the leaves.

IRRIGATION

They have high watering needs, which should be done after the soil has dried from the previous watering. They require a substrate with good drainage and pots with holes for proper drainage.

The quality of water is an important factor for the well-being of Calatheas. Tap water, especially if it contains a lot of salts, can damage the leaves and cause browning at their edges. Ideally, they prefer rainwater, filtered water, or water collected from a dehumidifier.

TEMPERATURE

As tropical plants, they enjoy warmth and usually a typical room temperature is satisfactory. In the summer, they should be kept away from air conditioning. Sudden changes in temperature and air should also be avoided, which is why they should not be placed near external doors or heating sources.

HUMIDITY

The Calathea love high humidity conditions. If the leaves are browning at the edges or curling, then the plant needs higher humidity levels. Increasing humidity can be done by placing several plants together or using a saucer filled with pebbles and water at the base of the pot.

FERTILIZATION

Essential during the growth period, it promotes the development of new leaves. It is done weekly with 1/2 of the recommended dosage of fertilizer. In winter, when the plants are dormant, fertilization is not necessary.

TIPS

• Overwatering is a problem for Calatheas, even though they love humidity. Brightly lit spots can more easily correct cases of overwatering.

• If the leaves are curling and the shoots are drooping downwards, do not worry. It is a symptom that the plant is thirsty, but they will recover immediately within a day if watered again.

• Occasionally, the leaves should be cleaned with a dry cloth to remove dust. Never apply a polishing spray as it damages the foliage (this applies to almost all Calatheas).