Calathea Prayer Plant Care

Light: Provide bright, indirect light. Calathea Prayer Plants thrive in filtered sunlight or dappled shade. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. They are well-suited for rooms with bright, indirect light or near windows with sheer curtains.
Humidity: Maintain high humidity levels. Calathea Prayer Plants are native to tropical rainforests and require a humid environment to thrive. Here’s how to increase humidity. Use a humidity tray: Place a tray filled with water and pebbles near the plant. Grouping plants together can create a microclimate with higher humidity.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch (2.5 cm) of the soil feels dry. Ensure that the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture but doesn’t become waterlogged. A mix formulated for tropical plants or a combination of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil works well.
Temperature: Maintain a warm and consistent temperature between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid exposing the plant to temperature extremes and drafts.
Fertilizing: Feed your Calathea Prayer Plant with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) about once a month. Reduce or suspend fertilization during the winter when growth slows down.
Pruning: Regularly remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth and maintain the plant’s appearance.
Potting: Repot your Calathea Prayer Plant every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for growth. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
Pest Management: Keep an eye out for common pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealy bugs. If you notice any infestations, treat the plant promptly with the appropriate method.
Non-Toxicity: Calathea Prayer Plants are generally considered non-toxic to pets and humans, making them safe choices for households with animals and children.

Calathea Plant Care Tips

Light: Calathea plants thrive in bright, indirect light. They should be shielded from direct sunlight, which can scorch their delicate leaves. They can tolerate lower light conditions but may not grow as vigorously.
Temperature: Maintain a warm and consistent temperature for your Calathea, ideally between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid exposing them to drafts or cold temperatures.
Humidity: These plants require high humidity levels to thrive. You can increase humidity by misting the leaves regularly, placing a humidity tray nearby, or using a humidifier.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch or so of the soil feels dry, usually about once a week, but this can vary depending on environmental conditions. Always use room-temperature water.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix that retains moisture but allows excess water to drain away. A mix formulated for tropical plants or a combination of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil works well.
Fertilizing: Feed your Calathea plant with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer) about once a month. Reduce or suspend fertilization during the winter when growth slows down.
Pruning: Regularly remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth and maintain the plant’s appearance.
Potting: Repot your Calathea every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for growth. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one.
Pest Control: Keep an eye out for common pests like spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. If you notice any infestations, treat the plant promptly with the appropriate method
Toxicity: Calathea plants are non-toxic to pets and humans, making them a safe choice for households with pets and children.