10 Common Problems With Calathea Plant: Treatment and Solutions

A tropical plant known as a prayer plant, Calathea plants do very well indoors. Several types of these plants exist; some have dark green leaves with velvety textures, while others have geometric patterns and gorgeous undersides. Read on if you’re looking for a long-term solution to any common issues affecting these tropical plants. In this article, we will help you identify the issues you may be experiencing with your Calathea plant.

10 Common Problems With Calathea Plant

Yellowing Leaves on Calathea Plant and How to Fix It

There are many reasons why your Calathea may be turning yellow, from pest infestations to insufficient light. Overwatering is the most common problem. Moisture is good for Calatheas, but it should not be excessively moist. As a result of waterlogged soil, oxygen cannot reach the roots, causing rotting roots and mushy stems.

The leaves of the plants turn yellow due to stress when root rot begins because they can’t draw up nutrients and moisture. After the soil has dried slightly, check your plant’s performance. The problem should be repotted, and infected soil and roots removed immediately. Plant in a new pot and new soil after trimming away problematic areas.

Brown Edges on Calathea Leaves and Solutions

A moisture problem is the first thing to look for. Lack of humidity and underwatering can both cause the edges of leaves to dry up and brown. If the issue is not addressed, it usually begins at the tips of the leaf and gradually spreads to the remaining leaf portion. Another concern could be the quality of the water you use if you water regularly.

The chemicals in some tap water cause the leaves of Calatheas to turn brown, caused by salt buildup in the soil. This issue can also be caused by salt buildup from overfertilizing. The soil should be flushed until it runs clear with filtered water in these situations. You should water the plant with filtered water in the future and not fertilize it for a couple of months to allow it to recover.

Curling Leaves on Calathea Plant and Causes

Calathea plants are tropical, meaning they’re used to high humidity levels and abundant soil moisture. A curling leaf on a Calathea indicates the plant is not receiving enough water. This can be caused by too much dryness in the Calathes’ soil or, in rare cases, low humidity. Curled Calathea leaves may result from high temperatures, overwatering, disease, pests, or too much fertilizer – even if the fertilizer is specially formulated.

Make sure the plant has an abundance of distilled water or filtered water. The plant should be watered until the drainage holes at the pot’s bottom leak water. After replenishing the water, continue to water the plant at least once a week or whenever the soil’s top 2 inches are noticeably dry. Using a moisture meter periodically will help you determine soil moisture levels in the future.

Wilting Calathea Plant and How to Revive It

Underwatering is the most likely cause of leafy plants. Most plant cells are made up of water, which fills up space and maintains the structure of the plant. Without enough water, the leaves lose their upright structure and wilt. A few hours after watering, the problem should be resolved by deeply moistening the soil or watering from the bottom until it is completely saturated.

Before you water, check the soil. In the case of still moist soil on top, overwatering may be the problem. In the same way that underwatering wilts plants, excessive moisture in the soil results in mushy leaves and stems. Depending on the severity of the problem, the roots may need to be repotted into fresh soil to prevent them from rotting.

Common Reasons for Lack of Growth

Inadequate Lighting: Calathea plants thrive in bright, indirect light. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth or no growth at all. Move it to a brighter location or provide artificial grow lights to substitute the natural light.
Improper Watering: Overwatering or underwatering can adversely affect Calathea plants’ growth. Adjust the watering frequency based on the moisture needs of your plant. Keep in mind to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
Low Humidity: Calathea plants are native to tropical regions and thrive in high humidity. Place a water tray near the plant or use a humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels. Grouping plants can also create a more humid microclimate.
Temperature Stress: Extreme temperatures can negatively impact the growth of Calathea plants. They prefer temperatures between 15°C and 24°C. Keep it away from heating or cooling vents; consistent temperatures will promote healthy growth.

In case you missed it: 10 Problems With Flowering Pansies: Treatment and Solutions

Drooping Leaves on Calathea and Proper Care

Underwatering: Check the soil if you are experiencing these problems. Watering schedules will need to be adjusted if the soil is dry. When the soil is moist, aerate it if the water is not reaching the roots.
Overwatering: You’ll either need to be waterless or move the plant to a location with more light if the soil is quite wet.
Drafts and Low Temperatures: They’re tropical, so they like things nice and toasty! The temperature in the room is perfect for them.

Browning or Crispy Leaves on Calathea Plant

One common cause of browning or crispy leaves is improper watering. Calathea plants prefer consistently moist soil, but overwatering can lead to root rot and subsequent leaf damage. On the other hand, underwatering can cause the leaves to dry and become crispy. It is important to strike a balance and ensure the plant is adequately watered without allowing water to sit in the pot’s saucer.

Another possible cause of browning or crispy leaves is exposure to direct sunlight. Calathea plants thrive in indirect, filtered light, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight will cause sunburn on the leaves, resulting in browning and crispiness. It is advisable to place the plant where it can receive bright, indirect light.

Calathea Plant Attracting Pests and Control Methods

Several pests feed on the juicy leaves of Calathea plants, including sap-sucking insects. Parts of the leaves turn yellow and brown as they die off due to damage to the plant’s internal structures and growth disruption. Whenever there is a pest problem, quarantine should always be the first response. To prevent the spread of the disease, move the plant to an isolated location away from other houseplants. Once the bugs have been removed, repeat insecticidal soap or horticultural oil applications at recommended intervals until all pests have been eliminated.

Calathea Plant Losing Vibrant Colors and Remedies

Adjust Lighting Conditions: If your Calathea plant is not receiving enough light, consider moving it to a brighter spot. If it is exposed to direct sunlight, move it to a location with indirect light. Finding the right balance of light will help revive the vibrant colors of the leaves.

Maintain Proper Watering: Ensure you are correctly watering your Calathea plant. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels slightly dry. Avoid overwatering, as it leads to root rot and affects the plant’s overall health.

Increase Humidity: Calathea plants thrive in humid conditions. Increase the humidity around your plant by placing a tray filled with water near it or using a humidifier. It prevents the leaves from drying out and losing their vibrant colors.

Fertilize Regularly: Regularizing your Calathea plant can help restore its vibrant colors. Choose a balanced, water-soluble houseplant fertilizer and follow the instructions on the packaging for application.

Yellow Spots or Blotches on Calathea Leaves and Treatment

One possible cause of yellow spots on Calathea leaves is pest infestation. Common pests that affect Calathea plants include spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, leading to leaf discoloration and damage. To treat pest infestations, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Environmental stressors such as temperature extremes, low humidity, or excessive sunlight can cause yellow spots on Calathea leaves. Calatheas thrive in warm and humid conditions, with temperatures between 15-29°C and humidity levels around 50-60%. Placing the plant away from direct sunlight and using a humidifier or placing a water-filled tray near the plant can help create a more suitable environment.

In case you missed it: 9 Reasons Why Your Orchid Flowers Are Falling Off: Treatment and Solutions

Conclusion

Knowing these common problems and their solutions, you can keep your Calathea plants thriving and flourishing. Regularly monitor your plants, providing them with the appropriate care, and you will enjoy the beauty of their lush foliage for years to come.

10 Common Problems With Calathea Plant: Treatment and Solutions