Calatheas, known for their striking foliage and vibrant colours, are popular choices for indoor plant enthusiasts.

At The Horti House, we aim to empower you to help your customers get the most out of their houseplants, so we've curated this care guide with the specific care required for these tropical plants to thrive.

Let's dive into the essential tips for keeping your Calathea happy and healthy. 

1. Lighting: 

• Calatheas thrive in indirect, bright light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch their delicate leaves.
• Place your Calathea near a north or east-facing window where it can receive gentle, filtered sunlight.
• If natural light is limited, consider supplementing with artificial grow lights, ensuring they mimic natural lighting conditions.

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Calatheas prefer slightly moist conditions.
• Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, typically once a week.
• Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots. Consider using filtered or distilled water to prevent mineral buildup.
• Feed your Calathea with a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (Spring and Summer).

• Calatheas are native to tropical regions and thrive in high humidity.
• Increase humidity levels by misting the leaves regularly or placing a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles beneath the plant.
• Grouping Calatheas with other plants can also create a microclimate with higher humidity levels.

4. Temperature: 

• Maintain a consistent temperature between 18-27°C. Avoid exposure to cold drafts or sudden temperature fluctuations.
• Calatheas are sensitive to cold temperatures, so ensure they are not placed near air conditioning vents or drafty windows.

• Repot your Calathea every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Spring is the ideal time for repotting.
• Choose a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, promoting healthy root growth.

• Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves promptly to encourage new growth.
• Wipe the leaves regularly with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain their glossy appearance.
• Regularly inspect your plant for pests such as spider mites or aphids and treat any breakouts immediately. 

With these simple care tips, you can ensure that your Calathea not only survive, but thrive and by providing the right balance of light, water and humidity, you'll be rewarded with its vibrant foliage.  

Check out our Calathea collection here.