Calathea Zebra Plant Care Guide:
Tips and Tricks for Healthy Growth

Calathea Zebra plants are stunning indoor plants with their unique striped leaves. They are native to South America and are known for their air-purifying properties. These plants require specific care to thrive, so we’ve put together a guide to help you grow a healthy and beautiful Calathea Zebra plant.

Light Requirements

Calathea Zebra plants prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves, so it’s best to place the plant near a window with filtered light or in a room with bright but indirect light. If the plant is receiving too much light, it will start to curl its leaves, indicating a need for more shade.

Watering

Watering is crucial to the health of your Calathea Zebra plant. It’s important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. You can water your plant once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid using tap water as it may contain salts and chemicals that can damage the plant’s roots. Instead, use distilled or rainwater to keep your plant healthy.

Humidity

Calathea Zebra plants thrive in humid environments. If the air in your home is dry, you can increase the humidity around your plant by misting it regularly or placing it on a pebble tray filled with water. You can also use a humidifier to maintain the right humidity levels.

Soil and Fertilizer

Calathea Zebra plants prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. You can use a potting mix that contains perlite or sand to ensure good drainage. Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during winter as the plant goes dormant during this period.

Temperature

Calathea Zebra plants prefer warm temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). They cannot tolerate temperatures below 60°F (15°C) or above 85°F (29°C). Keep your plant away from drafty areas like windows and doors as this can cause stress on the plant.

Propagation

You can propagate Calathea Zebra plants through division. Gently remove the plant from its pot and separate it into smaller sections ensuring that each section has roots attached. Plant each section in a new pot with fresh soil and water well. Place the new pots in bright but indirect light until they have rooted.

Common Issues

Calathea Zebra plants are prone to certain issues like leaf curling, yellowing leaves, and brown leaf tips. Leaf curling usually indicates that the plant is receiving too much light or not enough water. Yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or underwatering, while brown leaf tips may indicate low humidity levels or too much fertilizer.

FAQ

Q: Can Calathea Zebra plants be grown outdoors?

A: No, these plants are not suitable for outdoor growth as they require specific growing conditions and cannot tolerate extreme temperatures.

Q: Can I prune my Calathea Zebra plant?

A: Yes, you can prune your plant by cutting off any dead or yellowing leaves with clean scissors or pruning shears.

Q: How often should I repot my Calathea Zebra plant?

A: You should repot your plant every two years or when it outgrows its current pot.

Q: Are Calathea Zebra plants safe for pets?

A: These plants are non-toxic to pets but may cause mild digestive discomfort if ingested in large quantities.

In conclusion, Calathea Zebra plants are beautiful indoor plants that require specific care to thrive. By following our care guide, you’ll be able to grow a healthy and stunning plant that will add beauty to any room in your home.