How to Care for Calathea Houseplants

Calatheas, with their exquisite foliage patterns and vibrant hues, add a touch of artistry to any indoor space. The captivating beauty of Calatheas makes them a perfect choice for those seeking unique and visually stunning houseplants!

Family: Marantaceae

Genus: Calathea

Commonly: prayer plant

WATER

• Calatheas thrive when kept consistently moist but not soggy - it’s essential to avoid waterlogging. Water when you notice that the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
  • From our team: Use room temperature water to avoid shock to the roots + distilled water to prevent mineral build-up on the foliage.

LIGHT

• Bright, indirect lighting is ideal for your Calathea. Filtered sun is ideal to keep the foliage at its brightest without risking burns.
• Rotate your Calathea periodically to ensure even exposure to light and promote balanced, well-rounded growth.

HUMIDITY & TEMP

• Originating from humid regions, Calatheas love any and all humidity. Maintain a super humid environment to keep these happy – aim for over 60%.
  • Pro-tip: If you notice curling, browning edges, your plant is asking for a boost in humidity. Consider a pebble tray or humidifier to boost moisture in the air!

SOIL

• A moisture-retentive soil is best for Calatheas, allowing the roots to access crucial moisture.
  • Try our tried-and-true mix: Coco Bag!

FERTILIZATION

• A balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season will keep your Calathea well-fed during the growing season.
  • Incorporate our Arber Plant Food during your routine waterings to promote lush, bright foliage.

PESTS

• Calatheas can be susceptible to spider mites and mealy bugs so be sure to inspect your collection frequently.
• A preventative routine is best to keep infestations away – include Arber Insecticide during your weekly maintenance routine.

PRUNING

• Pruning your Calathea will help control its shape and size while promoting new growth! Remove older, yellowing leaves to encourage more energy.