Why Are Your Calathea Dottie Plant Leaves Curling

Calatheas are beautiful plants that are known for their unique foliage and intense colors. The Calathea Dottie is a popular variety of this plant, known for its dark green leaves with purple undersides. However, if you notice the leaves of your Calathea Dottie plant are curling, it could be a sign of a problem. In this article, we will discuss the reasons why your Calathea Dottie plant leaves may be curling and how to fix this issue.

Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common reasons why Calathea Dottie plant leaves start to curl. These plants do not like to sit in water, and their roots can quickly become waterlogged. This can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow or brown.

To fix this issue, make sure you are not overwatering your plant. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. When you do water, make sure to only give it enough water to moisten the soil.

Underwatering

If the leaves of your Calathea Dottie plant are curling up and becoming crispy, it could be a sign of underwatering. Calatheas need consistently moist soil to thrive, and if the soil becomes too dry, the leaves will curl and start to turn brown.

To fix this issue, make sure you are watering your plant regularly. Check the soil moisture level before watering and make sure it stays consistently moist.

Low Humidity

Calathea Dottie plants thrive in environments with high humidity levels. If the air in your home is too dry, it can cause the leaves to curl and become crispy.

To fix this issue, increase the humidity levels around your plant. You can do this by misting your plant regularly, placing a humidifier near your plant, or grouping your plants together to create a humid microclimate.

Temperature Fluctuations

Calathea Dottie plants prefer warm temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). If the temperature around your plant fluctuates too much or drops below 60°F (15°C), it can cause the leaves to curl.

To fix this issue, make sure your plant is placed in a warm and consistent environment. Avoid placing it near cold drafts or in areas with temperature fluctuations.

Pest Infestations

Pests like spider mites and thrips can infest Calathea Dottie plants and cause the leaves to curl and become discolored. If you notice tiny webs or insects on your plant’s leaves, it could be a sign of a pest infestation.

To fix this issue, treat your plant with an insecticide specifically designed for houseplants. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully and repeat the treatment as needed.

Disease

Diseases like bacterial leaf spot and fungal leaf spot can cause the leaves of Calathea Dottie plants to curl and become discolored. If you notice black or brown spots on your plant’s leaves, it could be a sign of disease.

To fix this issue, remove any affected leaves from your plant and treat it with a fungicide or bactericide specifically designed for houseplants.

FAQ

Q: Should I mist my Calathea Dottie plant?

A: Yes! Calatheas love high humidity levels, so misting them regularly can help keep them healthy.

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

A: Calatheas need consistently moist soil to thrive. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: Can I propagate my Calathea Dottie plant?

A: Yes! Calatheas can be propagated through division or stem cuttings.

Q: Why are my Calathea Dottie plant leaves turning brown?

A: Brown leaves on a Calathea Dottie plant can be caused by a variety of issues, including overwatering, underwatering, low humidity levels, pest infestations, or disease. Make sure you are providing your plant with proper care to prevent further damage.