When it comes to fixing curled Calathea leaves, the first thing to understand is that the plant is likely experiencing dehydration. Calatheas are known to be quite thirsty plants, and if they don’t receive enough water, their leaves can start to curl. So, the solution is simple but crucial: you need to give your Calathea a good, thorough soaking.
To properly water your Calathea, make sure to use room temperature water. Cold water can shock the plant and cause additional stress. Fill a watering can or a container with water and slowly pour it onto the soil until you see water coming out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the entire root system is thoroughly hydrated.
It’s important to note that Calatheas prefer moist but not waterlogged soil. So, while you want to give it a good soak, you also want to make sure that excess water can drain away. If your Calathea is in a pot without drainage holes, you may need to repot it into a container that allows for proper drainage.
After watering, it’s a good idea to empty the saucer or tray under the pot to prevent the plant from sitting in standing water. Calatheas are sensitive to waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot and other issues.
In addition to proper watering, there are a few other factors to consider when caring for your Calathea. These plants prefer humid environments, so if you live in a dry climate or have low humidity indoors, you may want to increase humidity levels around the plant. This can be done by placing a tray of water near the plant, using a humidifier, or grouping it with other plants to create a microclimate of higher humidity.
Calatheas also thrive in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so it’s best to place them in a location where they receive filtered light or a few feet away from a window. If your Calathea is receiving too much direct sunlight, it may also cause the edges of the leaves to curl.
Lastly, Calatheas are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, particularly cold drafts. Make sure to keep your plant away from drafts from windows, doors, or air conditioning units, as this can stress the plant and lead to curling leaves.
Fixing curled Calathea leaves involves giving the plant a good, thorough soaking while ensuring proper drainage. Additionally, providing adequate humidity, bright but indirect light, and avoiding temperature fluctuations are important for overall Calathea care. By addressing these factors, you should see improvements in the health and appearance of your Calathea plant.
