Fertilizing Your Calathea Medallion Plant:
The Dos and Don’ts

If you are a plant lover, then you must have come across the Calathea Medallion. This plant is popular for its beautiful leaves that are adorned with striking green and purple colors. However, for the plant to maintain its vibrant colors and grow healthily, it needs proper care, including fertilization.

Fertilizing your Calathea Medallion is essential for its growth and development. In this article, we will discuss the dos and don’ts of fertilizing your plant to help you keep it healthy and thriving.

Do Use a Balanced Fertilizer

When fertilizing your Calathea Medallion, it is crucial to use a balanced fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). These are essential nutrients that plants need to grow strong and healthy.

A balanced fertilizer ensures that your plant receives all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions. It is important to note that over-fertilizing your plant can be detrimental to its growth. Thus, make sure you follow the recommended dosage on the fertilizer package.

Don’t Fertilize During Winter

Calathea Medallions are tropical plants that thrive in warm environments. During winter, these plants go into dormancy and do not require as much fertilizer as they do during the growing season. Therefore, it’s best to avoid fertilizing your plant during winter.

Fertilizing during winter can lead to root burn or damage, which can cause stunted growth or even kill your plant. It’s best to wait until spring when the plant starts actively growing again.

Do Fertilize Every Two Weeks

Calathea Medallions require regular fertilization to maintain their vibrant colors and healthy growth. It’s recommended that you fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season.

During this period, your plant requires more nutrients for healthy growth, making regular fertilization crucial. However, remember not to over-fertilize as it can lead to root burn or other problems.

Don’t Use Tap Water

When fertilizing your Calathea Medallion, it’s important to avoid using tap water. Tap water contains minerals and chemicals that can affect the pH levels of the soil, making it difficult for your plant to absorb nutrients.

Instead, use distilled or filtered water when fertilizing your plant. These types of water do not contain harmful minerals or chemicals that can harm your plant.

Do Use Organic Fertilizers

Organic fertilizers are a great option for fertilizing your Calathea Medallion. They provide nutrients gradually and improve soil quality over time. Organic fertilizers also do not contain harsh chemicals that can harm your plant or the environment.

Examples of organic fertilizers include compost, manure, bone meal, fish emulsion, and seaweed extract. These fertilizers provide essential nutrients that are slowly released into the soil, ensuring long-term benefits for your plant.

Don’t Use Too Much Fertilizer

Over-fertilization can harm your Calathea Medallion by causing root burn or other problems. It’s essential to follow the recommended dosage on the fertilizer package and avoid using too much fertilizer.

Too much fertilizer can cause a buildup of salts in the soil, leading to toxicity or nutrient imbalances in your plant. Therefore, always read and follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully.

FAQ

Q: How often should I fertilize my Calathea Medallion?

A: You should fertilize your Calathea Medallion every two weeks during the growing season.

Q: Can I use tap water to fertilize my Calathea Medallion?

A: No, it’s best to avoid using tap water when fertilizing your plant as it contains minerals and chemicals that can affect soil pH levels.

Q: What type of fertilizer should I use for my Calathea Medallion?

A: A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) is recommended for your Calathea Medallion.

Q: Can I fertilize my Calathea Medallion during winter?

A: No, it’s best to avoid fertilizing your Calathea Medallion during winter as the plant goes into dormancy during this period.

In conclusion, fertilizing your Calathea Medallion is crucial for its health and growth. Always use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season while avoiding over-fertilization. Additionally, use organic fertilizers and avoid using tap water when fertilizing your plant. With these tips in mind, you can keep your Calathea Medallion thriving for years to come!