Why Are Your Aurora Borealis Plant Leaves Curling

The Aurora Borealis plant, also known as the Calathea, is a beautiful indoor plant that is native to South America. Its leaves are known for their unique patterns, which look like they have been painted by an artist. However, if you notice that your Aurora Borealis plant leaves are curling, it can be a cause for concern.

Causes of Curling Leaves

There are several reasons why your Aurora Borealis plant leaves may be curling. Here are the most common causes:

Dry Air

Aurora Borealis plants love humidity, and if the air in your home is too dry, it can cause the leaves to curl. This is because the plant is trying to conserve moisture.

Overwatering

Overwatering can also cause the leaves of your Aurora Borealis plant to curl. When soil is too wet for too long, it can lead to root rot and other problems that can affect the health of the plant.

Underwatering

Underwatering can also cause curling leaves. When a plant doesn’t get enough water, it will try to conserve moisture by curling its leaves.

Low light

Aurora Borealis plants need bright, indirect light to thrive. If your plant isn’t getting enough light, it may start to curl its leaves in an attempt to get closer to the light source.

Pests

Pests such as spider mites and thrips can also cause curling leaves. These pests suck the sap from the leaves, which can cause them to curl and become distorted.

How to Fix Curling Leaves

If you notice that your Aurora Borealis plant leaves are curling, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem:

Increase Humidity

One way to fix curling leaves caused by dry air is to increase the humidity around the plant. You can do this by placing a humidifier near the plant or by placing a tray of water near the plant.

Adjust Watering

If you suspect that overwatering or underwatering is causing the problem, adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Increase Light

If your plant isn’t getting enough light, move it closer to a window or provide additional artificial light.

Treat Pests

If you suspect that pests are causing your Aurora Borealis plant leaves to curl, treat them with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

FAQ

Q: Can I use tap water on my Aurora Borealis plant?

A: It’s best to use distilled or filtered water on your Aurora Borealis plant since tap water can contain chemicals that can be harmful to the plant.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Aurora Borealis plant?

A: Fertilize your Aurora Borealis plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer.

Q: Can I propagate my Aurora Borealis plant?

A: Yes, you can propagate your Aurora Borealis plant by division or by taking stem cuttings. Make sure to use sterile tools and follow proper propagation techniques.

In conclusion, if you notice that your Aurora Borealis plant leaves are curling, don’t panic! There are several reasons why this could be happening, and there are steps you can take to fix the problem. By providing adequate humidity, adjusting watering habits, increasing light exposure, and treating pests, you can keep your beautiful Calathea healthy and happy.