All About Calathea Ornata Plant Seeds:
Germination, Storage and Sowing

Calathea Ornata is a popular houseplant known for its stunning foliage. It belongs to the Marantaceae family and is native to South America. The plant is also known as Pinstripe Calathea due to the distinctive pink stripes on its leaves. If you’re looking to grow your own Calathea Ornata, this article will guide you through the germination, storage, and sowing of its seeds.

Germinating Calathea Ornata Seeds

Germinating Calathea Ornata seeds is a simple process that requires patience and care. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Obtain fresh seeds from a reputable source. Calathea Ornata seeds are small and black, with a papery texture.

2. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting. This will help soften the seed coat and improve germination rates.

3. Prepare a seed tray or pot with well-draining soil. You can use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand to create a suitable growing medium.

4. Sprinkle the seeds on top of the soil and cover them lightly with a thin layer of soil.

5. Water the soil gently to keep it moist but not saturated.

6. Place the seed tray or pot in a warm, humid location with indirect sunlight.

7. Keep the soil moist by misting it regularly or covering the seed tray with plastic wrap.

8. Wait for the seeds to germinate, which can take anywhere from two weeks to two months.

Storing Calathea Ornata Seeds

If you have leftover Calathea Ornata seeds, you can store them for future use. Here’s how:

1. Make sure the seeds are completely dry before storing them. You can air-dry them for a few days or use a dehydrator.

2. Place the seeds in an airtight container such as a ziplock bag or glass jar.

3. Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

4. Check on the seeds periodically to make sure they’re still viable.

Sowing Calathea Ornata Seeds

Once your Calathea Ornata seeds have germinated and grown into seedlings, it’s time to transplant them into their own pots.

1. Select a pot that’s slightly larger than the seedling’s current container.

2. Prepare a potting mix that’s suitable for Calathea Ornata plants. You can use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand similar to what was used for germination.

3. Carefully remove the seedling from its current container and loosen any tangled roots.

4. Place the seedling in its new pot and fill in any gaps with potting mix.

5. Water the plant thoroughly and place it in a warm, humid location with indirect sunlight.

6. Continue to care for your Calathea Ornata plant by providing it with regular waterings, high humidity levels, and indirect sunlight.

FAQ

How often should I water my Calathea Ornata plant?

Calathea Ornata plants prefer consistently moist soil, so water them whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Why are my Calathea Ornata leaves turning brown?

Brown leaves on a Calathea Ornata plant can be caused by overwatering, underwatering, low humidity levels, or exposure to direct sunlight.

Can I propagate my Calathea Ornata plant from cuttings?

Yes, you can propagate Calathea Ornata plants from stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during their active growth period and placed in water until roots develop before transplanting into soil. Division involves separating the plant at its root ball and replanting each section in its own pot.

How often should I fertilize my Calathea Ornata plant?

Calathea Ornata plants don’t require frequent fertilization but can benefit from monthly applications of a balanced fertilizer during their active growth period (spring and summer).