How to cultivate Calathea
A detailed introduction about how to cultivate Calathea and the cultivation methods and precautions for growing this plant, please see the detailed introduction below.
Calathea is a common herbaceous plant in life, named for its flower shape resembling a horse's hoof, and is therefore loved by many. However, most people do not know how to cultivate Calathea, as it has very high environmental requirements. Therefore, gardeners may encounter many difficulties during cultivation, which can lead to the plant withering and dying. Let's follow the editor to learn about the cultivation methods and precautions for Calathea.
【One, Calathea Cultivation Methods】
<1. Soil Selection>
The most critical step in cultivating Calathea is soil selection, as good soil is essential for the plant roots to absorb nutrients. Otherwise, it will directly affect the plant's normal growth during cultivation. Therefore, it's best to choose loose and fertile soil, and a layer of sand should be placed at the bottom of the flower pot to ensure the normal growth of Calathea.
<2. Watering Management>
Calathea prefers to grow in a humid environment and requires a high amount of water. During cultivation, it is best to keep the soil moist but not let water accumulate in the flower pot, as this can easily lead to parts of the Calathea rotting. Therefore, the principle of watering is to water only when necessary and to water thoroughly when you do.
<3. Light Requirements>
Calathea is shade-tolerant in the initial growth stage, but it requires plenty of sunlight during its vigorous growth and especially during the flowering period to ensure abundant flowers and leaves. Insufficient sunlight during the flowering period can easily cause the flower buds to turn green or fail to bloom.
<4. Appropriate Temperature>
Calathea requires an appropriate growth environment. If the temperature is too low or too high during cultivation, it will affect the plant's normal growth. Calathea thrives at temperatures between 15-25°C; below 10°C, the flowering period is delayed, below 5°C, growth stops, and at 0°C, it may die. In spring, it is advisable to move the plant out of the greenhouse when the minimum temperature is stable at 10°C.
<5. Proper Fertilization>
If you want your Calathea to grow better, appropriate fertilization is necessary. Over-fertilization can also cause root rot. It is best to fertilize once every two weeks, which also helps with normal absorption, and you can choose liquid fertilizer or buy special fertilizer for Calathea at the flower market. However, fertilization should be avoided during the flowering period.
<6. Disease and Pest Control>
Calathea is prone to diseases and pests during growth, and especially susceptible to aphid infestations when ventilation is poor during the growing season. In case of pest infestation, spray 40% omethoate emulsion at a concentration of 1500-2000 times and pay attention to improving ventilation conditions.
【Two, Precautions During Calathea Cultivation】
<1. Do not pour fertilizer and water on the leaves>