How Often Do I Water My Calathea Plant?

Calathea plants are popular for their colorful and patterned leaves, making them a great addition to any plant collection. However, caring for a Calathea plant can be a little tricky, especially when it comes to watering them. Here, we’ll guide you through the best practices to ensure your Calathea plant stays healthy and green.

The Watering Needs of a Calathea Plant

Calathea plants are tropical plants and thrive in environments with high humidity, which means they prefer damp soil. But be careful not to overwater them. Overwatering can lead to root rot and cause irreversible damage to your plant.

The best way to know when to water your Calathea plant is to check the soil. Stick your finger about an inch deep into the soil, and if it feels dry, it’s time to water your plant. On average, you should water a Calathea plant once a week during the growing season, and once every two weeks during the winter months.

The Importance of Using the Right Water

Unlike most other houseplants, Calathea plants are extremely sensitive to the quality of the water they receive. Hard water, which contains high levels of minerals, can cause the tips of the leaves to brown and dry out, and eventually kill the plant.

It’s therefore essential to use filtered or distilled water to water your Calathea plant. Keep in mind that if you’re using tap water, it’s best to let it sit out for a day or two before using it. This allows the chlorine and other chemicals in the water to evaporate and make it safer to use for your Calathea plant.

Other Tips to Keep Your Calathea Plant Healthy

In addition to watering your Calathea plant properly, there are a few other things you can do to keep it healthy:

Keep the humidity levels high: Calathea plants thrive in high humidity environments, so it’s essential to keep the air around them moist. You can use a humidifier or place a tray of water near your plant to increase the humidity levels.

Provide the right lighting: Calathea plants prefer bright, indirect lighting. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and cause them to fade or curl up.

Use a good quality potting mix: Calathea plants need a well-draining soil that holds onto moisture without getting waterlogged. Use a high-quality potting mix that contains perlite or vermiculite to ensure your plant gets the right balance of water and air.

Clean the leaves: Calathea plants have large leaves that are prone to dust and debris. Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth or mist them with water regularly to keep them clean and healthy-looking.

Conclusion

Proper watering is essential to keep your Calathea plant healthy and beautiful. Remember to check the soil and water your plant once a week during the growing season, and once every two weeks in the winter. Use filtered or distilled water and take steps to improve the humidity levels around your plant. By following these guidelines, your Calathea plant will thrive for years to come.