Select the appropriate Calathea variety, prepare hydroponic equipment, disinfect and trim, insert into the hydroponic bottle, add nutrient solution, provide light and temperature, regularly change water and trim, precautions.
Calathea, with its unique leaf shape and vibrant green color, has become a favorite indoor plant in many homes and offices. Hydroponic Calathea not only saves space but also simplifies maintenance. This article will provide a detailed introduction to the hydroponic method for Calathea, helping you easily cultivate a lush and vibrant plant.
Select the appropriate Calathea variety.
Before hydroponics, it is necessary to choose a Calathea variety suitable for hydroponic culture. Common varieties that are suitable for hydroponics include Green Jade, Red Jade, and Silver Wave, which have well-developed roots and are suitable for growing in water.
Prepare hydroponic equipment.
Hydroponic Calathea requires the following equipment: a transparent hydroponic bottle, nutrient solution, scissors, disinfectant, etc. The transparent hydroponic bottle allows observation of the growth of Calathea roots, while the nutrient solution provides the necessary nutrients for plant growth.
Disinfect and trim.
Before placing the Calathea in the hydroponic bottle, the roots need to be disinfected and trimmed. Soak the Calathea roots in a disinfectant for about 10 minutes, then use scissors to cut off decayed and blackened roots, retaining healthy ones.
Insert into the hydroponic bottle.
Insert the trimmed Calathea roots into the hydroponic bottle, making sure not to fully submerge the roots in water. Generally, only 1/3 to 1/2 of the root part should be immersed in water. Too much root immersion can lead to root rot.
Add nutrient solution.
Add an appropriate amount of nutrient solution to the water, diluted according to the product instructions. The nutrient solution provides the necessary nutrients for Calathea to maintain healthy growth.
Light and temperature.
Calathea prefers scattered light and should be protected from direct sunlight. Place the hydroponic bottle in a bright indoor area but out of direct sunlight, and maintain an indoor temperature of 18-25°C, which is conducive to Calathea growth.
Regularly change water and trim.
Hydroponic Calathea needs to have its water changed regularly, usually once a week. When changing water, you can also trim away decayed roots. If the roots grow too fast, they can be trimmed appropriately to avoid affecting the normal growth of Calathea.
Precautions.
1. Avoid placing the hydroponic bottle in a poorly ventilated area to prevent root rot.
2. Pay attention to the growth of Calathea and adjust light and temperature in a timely manner.
3. Regularly inspect the roots and deal with any abnormalities promptly.
Hydroponic Calathea is a simple and feasible maintenance method. By following the above methods, you can easily cultivate lush and vibrant Calathea at home. During the maintenance process, pay attention to the growth of Calathea and adjust maintenance measures in a timely manner. I believe you will be able to grow beautiful Calathea.
References:
《Household Hydroponic Plant Maintenance Manual》, published by China Forestry Publishing House in 2019.
《Hydroponic Plant Maintenance Skills》, published by China Agricultural Publishing House in 2018.