detailed care guide for calathea

Scientific Name: Calathea – also known as Goeppertia, Prayer Plant (name given to all calatheas)

Origin: Bolivia

Light: Medium, filtered light – can also handle low light temporarily (i.e. during winter)

Water: Water regularly to maintain moist soil but do not let the soil become soggy since the plant is prone to root rot. Use filtered, distilled or rainwater, especially if you live in an area with hard water.

Soil: Very important to have well draining potting mix – a good mix is two parts peat/coir and one part perlite. Avoid vermiculite.

Temperature: 18°C – 24ºC

Fertilizer: Every two weeks during growing season. Flush the soil several times per year to avoid buildup.

Humidity: Likes high humidity. Keep the leaves looking fresh & healthy by misting regularly.

Pruning: Only cut away old or yellowed leaves.

Re-Potting: Doesn’t need frequent repotting – only repot when it becomes root bound (roots sticking out of the bottom)

Propagation: Propagate by division in late spring/early summer. Can be tricky since the roots will be all tangled up.

Diseases and Pests: The most common and deadly vulnerability is root rot so avoid overwatering. Damp conditions can also promote fungus, powdery mildew & leaf-spot.

Toxicity: Non-toxic to humans or animals.