How to Revive a Dying Calathea Plant

Calathea plants are known for their beautiful foliage and unique patterns, but these delicate plants can be tricky to care for. If your once-lush Calathea is looking droopy and sad, don't give up hope just yet. With the right care, you can revive your dying Calathea plant and bring it back to life.

Assess the Problem

The first step in saving a dying Calathea is to understand what's causing the problem. There are a few common issues that can cause Calathea plants to decline, including:

Incorrect watering

Low humidity

Insufficient light

Fertilizer problems

Temperature stress

When trying to revive a dying Calathea, take a close look at the plant and the surrounding environment to identify any potential issues.

Care Tips for a Dying Calathea

If your Calathea plant is struggling, there are a few key care tips that can help bring it back to life:

1. Adjust watering habits

Calathea plants are sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other plant health issues. Make sure that the soil is dry to the touch before watering, and allow excess water to drain out of the pot. Additionally, avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. Water the plant only when necessary, and only with filtered or distilled water, as these plants are sensitive to chemicals found in tap water.

2. Increase humidity

Calathea plants thrive in high-humidity environments. If your home is particularly dry, consider using a humidifier or placing your plant on a pebble tray filled with water to increase the moisture level in the air around the plant. Another way to increase humidity is to mist the plant regularly, being careful not to get water on the leaves.

3. Give it proper lighting

Calathea plants need bright, indirect light to thrive. If your plant is in a particularly dark spot, consider moving it to a brighter location, but be careful not to expose it to direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

4. Check soil quality

The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. If the soil is compacted or dry, loosen the soil and add compost or a high-quality potting mix to help improve drainage and provide nutrients.

5. Adjust temperature

Calathea plants prefer warm, tropical environments with temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If your plant is exposed to cold drafts or fluctuating temperatures, it may be struggling. Try moving it to a more stable location or placing a space heater nearby to maintain the optimal temperature.

6. Avoid fertilizer mistakes

Over-fertilizing can be just as harmful as under-fertilizing a Calathea plant. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer according to the package instructions, and avoid fertilizing during the winter months, when the plant is in its dormant phase.

Final Thoughts

If your Calathea plant is dying, it's important not to panic. Instead, take a close look at the plant's environment, watering habits, and overall care routine to identify any potential issues. With a few key care tips, your dying Calathea can be revived and restored to its former beauty.