The Calathea, often called the Prayer Plant or Peacock Plant, is an absolute showstopper in the world of indoor gardening. Plant parents everywhere fall in love with those stunning, patterned leaves and the occasional unique blooms. However, I’ll be honest with you: this tropical beauty can be a bit of a diva. If you slip up on her care routine, she’ll let you know immediately. Getting the watering right is the secret sauce to keeping this plant happy.
Quick Guide to Watering Your Calathea
If you don’t get the hydration balance just right, your Calathea will start acting out. Here are my top tips for keeping those roots happy:
- Keep a regular watering schedule.
- Never let the root ball dry out completely.
- Avoid “wet feet”—standing water is a big no-no!
- Use filtered or soft water (Calatheas are sensitive to lime and minerals).
- Rainwater is the gold standard for these plants.
- Make sure the water is lukewarm, not ice cold.
- Give the leaves a regular misting to boost humidity.
How to Read Your Plant’s “Moods”
One thing I love (and sometimes find frustrating!) about Calatheas is that they wear their hearts on their sleeves. If you’re watering incorrectly, you’ll see it in the foliage almost instantly.
Brown leaves are usually a cry for help regarding low humidity or too much direct sun. Yellow leaves often mean you’ve been a bit too heavy-handed with the fertilizer. If you notice drooping leaves, there’s a good chance the roots are sitting in stagnant water. And if those gorgeous leaves are curling up, your plant is likely caught in a chilly draft.
Setting Your Calathea Up for Success
To keep your leafy friend looking like a masterpiece, remember where she came from. Calatheas are native to the tropical rainforest floor, where it’s dim, warm, and very humid. To mimic that environment, keep her in partial to full shade and make sure the air stays moist. Master the moisture, and you’ll have a thriving centerpiece for years to come!
