Let’s be real: the Calathea (often called the Prayer Plant) isn’t exactly the “set it and forget it” type. It’s got a bit of a reputation for being a drama queen because of its specific needs. But honestly? If you give it some love and meet its requirements, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most stunning houseplants out there for years to come.
Finding the Perfect Spot for Your Calathea
To keep your Calathea happy, you need to think “cozy and protected.” These plants aren’t fans of the spotlight. Here’s what to look for in a location:
- Low light to partial shade is best.
- Absolutely no direct midday sun.
- High humidity is a must.
- Keep it away from drafty doors or windows.
- Make sure the room stays warm.
If your Calathea starts drooping, it’s usually a sign it’s getting too much light. And if you notice brown spots or edges on the leaves, your plant likely has a sunburn. Your best bet is a window that only gets a little bit of gentle morning or evening sun.
The cool thing about Calatheas is that they can handle darker corners where other plants might struggle. Just make sure the temperature doesn’t dip below 65°F (18°C).
Keep That Humidity High
Since these beauties originally come from the Brazilian rainforest, they crave moisture in the air. Ideally, they love about 80% humidity.
You can mimic those tropical vibes by placing a few water bowls near the plant or giving it a regular misting with a fine spray bottle. Your Calathea will thank you for it!
Avoiding Common Care Mistakes
To keep your Calathea thriving, there are a few “no-nos” to keep in mind. The big ones are soggy soil (standing water) and over-fertilizing. On the flip side, you never want the root ball to completely dry out either—it’s all about that balance! As for feeding, once a month from March through September is plenty. They really don’t need more nutrients than that.
The Secret to Getting Blooms
If you want to encourage your Calathea to bloom, it needs a little “beauty sleep” during the winter. Move the plant to a darker spot for several weeks. During this winter rest period, aim for about twelve hours of darkness every day to help trigger those flowers.
