How Often to Water Peacock Plant

Peacock plant, also known as Calathea, is a popular houseplant due to its beautiful foliage and low maintenance requirements. However, one of the misunderstandings about peacock plants is how often to water them. In this article, we'll explore the proper watering techniques to keep your peacock plant healthy and happy.

The Water Requirements of Peacock Plants

Peacock plants originate from the humid tropical forests of South America, where they grow under the canopies of tall trees. As a result, they prefer to grow in moist environments with consistent levels of humidity. However, that doesn't mean you should overwater them.

The amount of water your peacock plant needs will depend on a few things:

The size of your plant

The season

The type of soil your plant grows in

The humidity levels of your environment

Generally, you should water your peacock plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. You can use a finger to check if the soil feels moist or dry. If it feels moist, you can wait a few more days before watering.

How to Water Your Peacock Plant

The most important thing when watering your peacock plant is to ensure that the water penetrates the roots. You don't want to water the surface of the soil and leave the roots dry. To do this:

Water your peacock plant slowly and evenly until water starts to drain out of the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the roots are getting enough water.

Allow the plant to drain fully before returning it to its saucer or stand. Avoid leaving your peacock plant sitting in standing water—the roots may rot.

If you're using tap water, let it sit for a day before watering your plant. This allows any chlorine or fluoride in the water to evaporate. You can also use filtered water or rainwater if possible. Peacock plants are sensitive to chemicals in tap water, and they prefer slightly acidic water with a pH of around 6.0-6.5.

Signs of Overwatering and Underwatering

If you're unsure whether you're watering your peacock plant correctly, there are a few signs to watch out for:

Overwatering:

Yellowing leaves

Soggy soil

An unpleasant odor

Mold or fungus growth

Underwatering:

Wilting or drooping leaves

Dry soil

Brown tips or edges on leaves

Leaf curling

If you notice any of these signs, adjust your watering habits accordingly. If you're overwatering, reduce the frequency of watering and make sure your plant has adequate drainage. If you're underwatering, increase the frequency of watering.

Other Care Tips for Peacock Plants

In addition to proper watering, there are a few other care tips to ensure your peacock plant thrives:

Place your plant in a bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves.

Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. As mentioned earlier, peacock plants thrive in moist environments.

Maintain a level of humidity of at least 50%. You can achieve this by placing a tray of pebbles beneath your plant or using a humidifier.

Fertilize your plant during the growing season every two weeks, using a diluted liquid fertilizer.

Prune your plant regularly to maintain its shape and remove any dead or yellowing leaves.

Conclusion

Peacock plants are a beautiful addition to any home. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your peacock plant is healthy and thriving. Remember to water your plant when the soil is dry, water it slowly and evenly, and ensure that it has adequate drainage. With the right care, your peacock plant can live for several years!