How often do you water praying hands plant?

Prayer plants are popular among gardeners because of their unique foliage and vibrant colors. One of the most popular types of prayer plants is the Calathea 'Praying Hands', which is characterized by its narrow and elongated leaves that bring to mind a pair of folded hands in prayer. However, like any other plant, the Calathea 'Praying Hands' requires adequate watering to thrive. In this article, we explore how often you should water this prayer plant to ensure its healthy growth and development.

Understanding the Watering Needs of the Calathea 'Praying Hands'

The Calathea 'Praying Hands' is a tropical plant that thrives in humid environments. As such, its watering needs are more specific than those of other types of plants. It is advisable to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems that can damage the plant. Additionally, the plant will need less water during the winter months when it enters a dormant phase, and more water during warmer months when it is actively growing.

Factors That Affect the Watering Needs of Calathea 'Praying Hands'

Several factors affect how often you should water your Calathea 'Praying Hands'. Some of these include:

Humidity: Higher humidity levels can reduce the plant's need for water as it absorbs moisture from the air.

Temperature: Warm temperatures increase water needs while cooler temperatures reduce the need for water.

Soil type: Well-draining soil allows water to seep through quickly, while poorly-draining soil requires less watering but can lead to water retention and root rot.

Size of the pot: A larger pot requires more water to reach all parts of the soil, while a smaller pot requires less water to maintain moisture levels.

Best Practices for Watering Calathea 'Praying Hands'

To ensure healthy growth and development of the Calathea 'Praying Hands', it is essential to follow best practices for watering. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Check the soil moisture: Before watering, ensure that the top layer of soil is dry to the touch. Inserting a finger into the soil can help you feel the moisture levels in the soil.

Water thoroughly: When watering, ensure that you water the soil thoroughly until water drains out from the bottom of the pot. This helps to eliminate any dry pockets of soil that can otherwise harm the plant.

Do not water excessively: Avoid overwatering the plant as it can cause root rot and other problems. Ensure that the soil has adequate drainage to prevent water retention.

Use filtered or distilled water: Calathea 'Praying Hands' is sensitive to chemicals found in tap water. Consider using filtered or distilled water instead of tap water to prevent any potential damage.

Monitor the plant regularly: Keep an eye on the foliage of the plant to ensure that it is not wilting or turning yellow. These signs may indicate that the plant needs more water.

Conclusion

Calathea 'Praying Hands' is a stunning tropical plant that requires careful attention to watering to ensure healthy growth and development. The plant's watering needs depend on several factors, including humidity, temperature, soil type, and pot size. As such, it is essential to follow best practices when watering the plant, including checking the soil moisture, watering thoroughly, avoiding overwatering, using filtered or distilled water, and monitoring the plant regularly. With proper watering, the Calathea 'Praying Hands' can thrive and bring its unique beauty to any indoor or outdoor space.