How to Care for Calathea Plants

How to Care for Calathea Plants

🌿 How to Care for Calathea Plants: Varieties, Tips & Troubleshooting

Calatheas are among the most captivating indoor plants, known for their vibrant foliage and rhythmic leaf movements. Often called Prayer Plants, they close their leaves at night and reopen them in the morning—a gentle reminder of nature’s rhythm. But while they’re beautiful, Calatheas can be a bit fussy. Here’s everything you need to know to help yours thrive. Calatheas are also very affordable, which is another added bonus.


🪴 Popular Calathea Varieties

Each Calathea variety brings its own unique flair to your space:

  • Calathea Orbifolia – Large, round leaves with silver stripes.
  • Calathea Roseopicta – Deep green leaves with pink brushstroke patterns.
  • Calathea Lancifolia (Rattlesnake Plant) – Long, wavy leaves with dark green spots.
  • Calathea Makoyana (Peacock Plant) – Intricate leaf patterns resembling feathers.
  • Calathea Zebrina – Velvety leaves with zebra-like stripes.

These varieties are perfect for adding texture and colour to minimalist or nature-inspired interiors.


🌞 Light Requirements

Calatheas prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, while too little light may cause fading.

🛒 Helpful Product: Sheer curtains or adjustable plant stands to position your Calathea in the perfect light.


💧 Watering & Humidity

  • Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Use filtered or distilled water to avoid leaf damage from fluoride or chlorine.
  • Humidity: Calatheas thrive in high humidity (above 50%). Dry air can lead to crispy leaf edges.

🛒 Helpful Product: Mini humidifiers, pebble trays, and plant misting bottles.


🌱 Soil & Fertilizer

Use a well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter. Fertilise monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertiliser.

🛒 Helpful Product: Organic tropical plant soil and gentle houseplant fertilizer.


🐛 Common Problems & Solutions

1. Brown Leaf Edges

  • Cause: Low humidity or chemicals in tap water.
  • Solution: Increase humidity and switch to filtered water.

2. Curling Leaves

  • Cause: Underwatering or too much light.
  • Solution: Adjust the watering schedule and move to a shadier spot.

3. Yellowing Leaves

  • Cause: Overwatering or poor drainage.
  • Solution: Check soil moisture and ensure the pot has drainage holes.

4. Pests (Spider Mites, Mealybugs)

  • Cause: Dry conditions or infrequent cleaning.
  • Solution: Wipe leaves regularly and treat with neem oil spray.

🛒 Helpful Product: Neem oil spray, water filter pitchers, and self-watering pots.


🧘♀️ Final Thoughts

Calatheas may be a bit high-maintenance, but their beauty and movement make them worth the effort. With the right care and environment, they’ll reward you with lush, vibrant foliage and a peaceful presence in your home.

Explore our curated collection of plant care essentials to support your Calathea and other indoor plants. Your home deserves to be a haven, and your plants, a reflection of that calm.

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