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

Calathea ornata, also known as pinstripe plant, is a gorgeous ornamental houseplant that is popular among indoor gardeners. Its strikingly beautiful leaves with pink stripes make it an eye-catching addition to any room. Like all plants, the Calathea ornata requires proper care to thrive, including regular fertilization.

Fertilizers are a crucial element in plant growth and development. They provide essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium that plants need to grow healthy and strong. However, fertilizing your Calathea ornata plant requires a bit of knowledge and care to avoid damaging the plant. In this article, we’ll discuss the dos and don’ts of fertilizing your Calathea ornata plant.

Dos

Use a Balanced Fertilizer

A balanced fertilizer contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK). This type of fertilizer is ideal for Calathea ornata plants since it provides all the essential nutrients they need for healthy growth. Look for a slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.

Fertilize During the Growing Season

Calathea ornata plants grow actively during the spring and summer months when temperatures are warmer. This period is the best time to fertilize your plant since it needs more nutrients to support its growth. Fertilize every two weeks during this period and reduce the frequency during fall and winter.

Dilute the Fertilizer

Concentrated fertilizers can easily burn your Calathea ornata plant’s roots, leading to stunted growth or even death. Dilute the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions before applying it to your plant. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers that are less likely to burn your plant’s roots.

Water Your Plant Before Fertilizing

Watering your Calathea ornata plant before fertilizing helps prevent root damage by ensuring that the soil is moist enough to absorb the fertilizer. Water your plant thoroughly a day before applying fertilizer.

Don’ts

Overfertilize Your Plant

Overfertilizing your Calathea ornata plant can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can damage the roots and cause yellowing or browning of leaves. Stick to the recommended fertilization schedule and avoid adding excess fertilizer.

Fertilize Newly Transplanted Plants

Newly transplanted Calathea ornata plants are fragile and can easily get damaged by fertilizers. Wait for at least six weeks after transplanting before fertilizing your plant.

Use High-Nitrogen Fertilizers

High-nitrogen fertilizers promote leaf growth instead of root development, which is essential for Calathea ornata plants’ overall health. Avoid using fertilizers with high nitrogen content (the first number in the NPK ratio) as they can lead to stunted growth.

Apply Fertilizer Directly to Leaves

Applying fertilizer directly on Calathea ornata leaves can cause leaf burn or damage them. Always apply fertilizer to the soil around the base of the plant.

FAQ

How often should I fertilize my Calathea ornata plant?

Fertilize your Calathea ornata every two weeks during spring and summer and reduce the frequency during fall and winter.

What type of fertilizer should I use?

Use a slow-release balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.

Can I use organic fertilizers?

Yes, organic fertilizers are an excellent alternative to synthetic fertilizers since they are less likely to burn your plant’s roots.

Can I use leftover coffee grounds as a fertilizer?

Coffee grounds are an excellent source of nitrogen for plants, but they can be too acidic for Calathea ornata plants. It’s best to use them sparingly or mix them with other organic matter before applying them as fertilizer.

What happens if I overfertilize my Calathea ornata plant?

Overfertilizing can cause salt buildup in the soil, which damages roots and causes yellowing or browning of leaves. Stick to the recommended fertilization schedule and avoid adding excess fertilizer.

In conclusion, fertilizing your Calathea ornata plant requires care and attention to avoid damaging it. Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer every two weeks during spring and summer, dilute it properly, water your plant before applying fertilizer, and avoid overfertilizing or using high-nitrogen fertilizers. With proper care, your Calathea ornata will thrive and add beauty to your indoor garden for years to come!