Why Are Your Calathea Medallion Plant Leaves Curling

Calathea Medallion plants are a popular choice for indoor plant enthusiasts due to their stunning foliage and ease of care. However, one of the most common issues that gardeners face with this plant is the leaves curling up. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this issue and provide you with some tips to keep your Calathea Medallion plant healthy and thriving.

Overwatering

Overwatering is one of the most common causes of leaf curling in Calathea Medallion plants. When the soil is constantly moist, it can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for your plant. As a result, the leaves tend to curl up as a sign of distress.

To avoid overwatering your Calathea Medallion plant, make sure that you only water it when the top inch of soil is dry. You can also use a moisture meter to determine the moisture level in the soil. Another tip is to ensure that the pot has good drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.

Low Humidity

Calathea Medallion plants thrive in high humidity environments, and low humidity levels can cause their leaves to curl up. This is because these plants are native to tropical regions where they receive ample moisture from the air.

To increase the humidity around your Calathea Medallion plant, you can place a humidifier nearby or use a pebble tray. You can also group your plants together to create a microclimate with higher humidity levels.

Low Light

Calathea Medallion plants require bright, indirect light to thrive. If they don’t receive enough light, their leaves may start curling up as a sign of stress.

To ensure that your Calathea Medallion plant gets enough light, place it near a window with filtered sunlight or use grow lights if you don’t have access to natural light.

Pest Infestation

Pest infestations can also cause leaf curling in Calathea Medallion plants. Spider mites and thrips are two common pests that can cause damage to your plant’s leaves and lead to curling.

If you suspect that your plant has a pest infestation, inspect its leaves closely for signs of webbing or tiny insects. You can treat these pests with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Temperature Stress

Calathea Medallion plants are sensitive to temperature changes and can show signs of stress when exposed to extreme temperatures. If your plant’s environment is too hot or too cold, its leaves may start curling up.

To avoid temperature stress, keep your Calathea Medallion plant away from drafty windows or doors and maintain a consistent temperature around it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I save my Calathea Medallion plant if its leaves have already curled up?

A: Yes, you can save your plant if its leaves have curled up. First, identify the cause of leaf curling and take appropriate measures to address it. Then, trim off any damaged leaves and continue caring for your plant as usual.

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

A: Water your Calathea Medallion plant when the top inch of soil is dry. This usually means watering once or twice a week, depending on environmental conditions like humidity levels and temperature.

Q: Can I fertilize my Calathea Medallion plant?

A: Yes, you can fertilize your Calathea Medallion plant during the growing season (spring and summer). Use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength every two weeks.

Q: Are Calathea Medallion plants toxic?

A: Yes, Calathea Medallion plants are toxic to pets and humans if ingested. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.

In conclusion, leaf curling in Calathea Medallion plants can be caused by various factors such as overwatering, low humidity, low light, pest infestation, and temperature stress. By identifying the cause of leaf curling and taking appropriate measures to address it, you can help your plant recover and thrive.