How to Keep Your Calathea Happy and Healthy

But despite their beauty, they do come with their own set of care needs. Luckily, caring for a Calathea isn’t too tricky once you get the hang of it. Here’s a fun guide to keeping your leafy friend happy and thriving.

Light: Keep it Cozy, Not Sunny

Calatheas are a fan of medium to low indirect light. They’re a bit picky about sunlight, and direct rays can easily scorch their gorgeous leaves. So, instead of plopping them by the window for a sunbath, give them a cozy spot in a room where they can get bright, filtered light. They’ll thank you with vibrant, lush growth.

Watering: Moist, Not Soggy!

When it comes to watering your Calathea, consistency is key. Aim to water it when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, but don’t let the plant sit in water for too long—no one likes soggy feet, not even plants! Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. If you want to get a little fancy, consider using filtered or rainwater instead of tap water, as Calatheas can be a bit sensitive to the chemicals in regular tap water.

Humidity: It's Like a Spa Day for Your Calathea

If you want your Calathea to thrive, think of it as a tropical plant that loves a bit of pampering. These beauties crave high humidity. To give them the spa experience they deserve, you can place them on a pebble tray filled with water. This helps create a mini rainforest atmosphere that will keep your plant’s leaves lush and happy. If the air in your home is particularly dry, you can also use a humidifier to give them that extra boost of moisture. Don't mist Calathea, water sitting on top of the leaves will damage the plant.

Temperature: Keep it Warm and Cozy

Calatheas are fans of warmth, so keep them in a space that’s on the toasty side. They thrive in temperatures ranging from 65–80°F (18–27°C), which is pretty much the perfect climate for most indoor environments. Just be sure to avoid placing them in chilly spots or near drafty windows, as they aren’t fans of the cold.

Soil: Well-Draining and Cozy Roots

Your Calathea needs soil that can drain well to avoid soggy roots. Choose a well-draining potting mix to help maintain the moisture levels they love without suffocating their roots. If you want to go the extra mile, mix in a bit of perlite or orchid bark for that extra drainage boost.

Watch Out for These Potential Problems

Calatheas are pretty easygoing once you understand their needs, but they can still show signs of stress if something's not quite right. Here are a few clues to look out for:

• Brown leaf tips: Uh-oh! This usually means your Calathea is struggling with dry air or underwatering. It could also mean that you are overwatering or that there isn't good water drainage in the pot. Always check the soil before watering. If it is still moist, wait a few more days before watering. 

• Drooping leaves: If the leaves start drooping, it could be a sign of underwatering or too much direct light. Give your Calathea a bit more water and move it away from that harsh sunlight.

• Yellow leaves: Yellowing leaves usually point to overwatering. If you notice this happening, make sure the soil has good drainage and you’re not keeping the plant too wet for too long.

• Leaf curling: If the leaves start curling, that’s your Calathea telling you that the humidity isn’t high enough. Try increasing the humidity around your plant by misting more often or placing it on a pebble tray.