Calathea Prayer Plant in a Pot:
How to Care for Your Container Plant

Calathea prayer plant is a popular choice for indoor gardening enthusiasts. The plant features unique foliage that folds up at night, giving it a “prayer-like” appearance. However, caring for this plant can be a challenge, especially if you are new to indoor gardening. In this article, we will discuss how to care for your Calathea prayer plant in a pot.

Lighting Requirements

Calathea prayer plants do well in low to medium light conditions. Direct sunlight can damage the plant’s leaves, so it’s best to avoid placing it in direct sunlight. If possible, place your Calathea prayer plant near an east-facing window where it can receive bright but indirect light.

Watering Requirements

Calathea prayer plants prefer moist but well-draining soil. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be sure not to overwater your plant as this can lead to root rot. It’s also important to use room temperature water when watering your Calathea prayer plant as cold water can shock the roots.

Humidity Requirements

Calathea prayer plants are native to tropical regions and prefer high humidity levels. To increase the humidity around your plant, you can use a humidifier or place a tray of water near it. You can also mist your plant’s leaves with room temperature water once or twice a week.

Temperature Requirements

Calathea prayer plants do well in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid placing your plant near cold drafts or heat sources such as radiators and vents.

Soil Requirements

Calathea prayer plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a potting mix that is specifically formulated for tropical plants or create your own by mixing equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite.

Fertilizer Requirements

Calathea prayer plants do not require frequent fertilization, but you can feed them once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Propagation

Calathea prayer plants can be propagated through division. Wait until your plant has outgrown its container and then gently remove it from the pot. Separate the root ball into two or more sections using a clean, sharp knife and replant each section in its own pot.

Common Problems and Solutions

Brown Leaf Tips

Brown leaf tips are a common problem with Calathea prayer plants and are usually caused by low humidity levels or overwatering. Increase the humidity around your plant or reduce watering frequency to help prevent brown leaf tips.

Curling Leaves

Curling leaves are often caused by low humidity or underwatering. Increase the humidity around your plant or water it more frequently to help prevent curling leaves.

Yellowing Leaves

Yellowing leaves can be caused by overwatering or underwatering. Check the soil moisture level and adjust your watering frequency accordingly.

Pests

Calathea prayer plants are susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. If you notice these pests on your plant, isolate it from other plants and treat it with an insecticidal soap spray.

FAQ

Q: Can I place my Calathea prayer plant outside?

A: No, Calathea prayer plants are not cold-hardy and should be kept indoors.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Calathea prayer plant?

A: Once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Q: How often should I water my Calathea prayer plant?

A: Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: What should I do if my Calathea prayer plant’s leaves are turning brown?

A: Increase the humidity around your plant or reduce watering frequency to help prevent brown leaf tips.

Q: How do I propagate my Calathea prayer plant?

A: Wait until your plant has outgrown its container and then gently remove it from the pot. Separate the root ball into two or more sections using a clean, sharp knife and replant each section in its own pot.