Introduction

Calathea plants are popular houseplants known for their beautiful foliage. They are native to South America and are generally easy to care for. However, if you notice your calathea plant is not looking its best, there may be something wrong. In this article, we will discuss some of the common issues that can cause problems for your calathea plant and how to fix them.

Overwatering

One of the most common problems with calathea plants is overwatering. Calatheas prefer moist soil, but they do not like to sit in water. If you notice the leaves turning yellow or brown and the soil is constantly wet, you are likely overwatering your plant. To fix this, allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Also, make sure your pot has proper drainage to prevent water from sitting in the soil.

Underwatering

On the other hand, if your calathea plant is not getting enough water, you may notice the leaves curling or becoming crispy. Calatheas need consistent moisture, so make sure to water them regularly. However, be careful not to overwater as mentioned before.

Low Humidity

Calatheas are tropical plants and require high humidity to thrive. If the air in your home is too dry, the leaves may start to curl or brown at the edges. To fix this, you can mist your plant regularly or place a humidifier nearby. You can also group your calathea with other plants to create a humid microclimate.

Low Light

Calatheas prefer bright, indirect light. If your plant is not getting enough light, the leaves may start to fade or lose their markings. However, too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves. To fix this, place your calathea near a window with filtered light. You can also rotate your plant to ensure all sides get equal light.

Pests

Pests can also be a problem for calathea plants. Spider mites and mealybugs are common pests that can cause damage to the leaves. If you notice small webs or cottony masses on your plant, you may have a pest problem. To fix this, wash your plant with a mild soap and water solution or use an insecticidal soap.

Disease

Disease is less common in calathea plants, but it can happen. Fungal infections can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves. If you suspect disease, remove any affected leaves and treat your plant with a fungicide.

Root Bound

If your calathea plant has been in the same pot for a while, it may become root-bound. This means the roots have grown too large for the pot and are congested. This can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To fix this, repot your calathea into a larger pot with fresh soil.

Conclusion

Calathea plants are beautiful and easy to care for, but they can experience problems. By understanding the common issues and how to fix them, you can keep your calathea looking its best. Remember to check for over or underwatering, provide proper humidity and lighting, watch out for pests and disease, and repot when needed.