How to grow calathea well
The calathea, with its picturesque leaves and graceful posture, is a favorite ornamental plant among plant enthusiasts. To maintain the lustrous and vibrant leaves of calathea and ensure robust growth, it is necessary to master scientific and systematic care methods. This article will reveal five core care techniques, from environmental control to daily management.
Five Core Elements of Calathea Care
Temperature Control: Creating a Constant Temperature Microclimate
Calathea thrives best in a constant temperature environment of 15-25°C, and it is necessary to maintain temperatures above 12°C in winter. Avoid ventilation when the temperature is below 16°C, and it is recommended to open the windows for 2-3 hours daily when the temperature is above 16°C, especially avoiding direct air conditioning. Use a thermometer and hygrometer for real-time monitoring, and place it on a north-facing balcony during the hot summer months.
Water Management: Humidity Balance Rule
Calathea requires a very high level of air humidity, maintaining it above 85%. It is recommended to use the "double补水 method": keeping the potting soil slightly moist without waterlogging, combined with foliar spraying in the morning and evening. You can place the pot in a shallow water tray filled with pebbles to continuously increase humidity through evaporation. Water every 2-3 days in spring and autumn, and twice a day in summer.
Nutrient Supply: Precise Fertilization Plan
How to grow calathea well
In the growing season (April-October), apply a mixture of 0.2% urea + 0.1% potassium dihydrogen phosphate liquid fertilizer weekly, and stop fertilizing in winter. Special reminder: immediately stop fertilizing when the temperature exceeds 30°C to avoid root burn. It is recommended to use slow-release fertilizer in combination, sprinkling 10-15 Osmocote fertilizer granules on the surface of the potting soil every 3 months.
Light Control: Golden Four-Hour Rule
Follow the principle of "diffused light + morning light," and it is necessary to shade 70% of the light from late spring to early autumn. The best lighting period is the soft sunlight from 8-10 a.m., ensuring 4 hours of light daily. Adjust by observing the leaf condition: shade if the leaves turn white, and supplement light if the leaf color is dim.
Disease and Pest Control: Three-Level Protection System
Establish a three-level protection system focusing on prevention: alternate monthly sprays of carbendazim and benomyl; regularly check the undersides of leaves; maintain good ventilation. If scale insects are found, immediately spray with a 40% miticidal alcohol emulsion diluted 1000 times, combined with physical removal using alcohol cotton swabs.