One common problem that Calathea plants can experience is curling leaves. This can be a sign that the plant is not receiving enough humidity. Calatheas are native to tropical regions and thrive in high humidity environments. When they are grown in drier conditions, their leaves can curl as a way to conserve moisture.
To save your Calathea with curling leaves, it’s important to increase the humidity around the plant. There are several methods you can try to achieve this.
1. Misting the leaves: One simple way to increase humidity is by misting the leaves of your Calathea on a regular basis. Fill a spray bottle with room temperature water and mist the leaves every few days. Be sure to use filtered water or let tap water sit for 24 hours to allow chlorine to dissipate.
2. Pebble tray: Another method to increase humidity is by using a pebble tray. Fill a shallow tray with water and place pebbles or stones in it. Then, place your Calathea on top of the pebbles, making sure the water does not touch the bottom of the pot. As the water evaporates, it will create humidity around the plant.
3. Humidifier: If you have a larger space or multiple plants that require higher humidity, using a humidifier can be beneficial. Place the humidifier near your Calathea and adjust the settings to provide the desired humidity level. This can help create a more consistent and controlled environment for your plants.
4. Grouping plants together: Another way to increase humidity is by grouping your Calathea with other houseplants. As plants transpire, they release moisture into the air, increasing the overall humidity in the area. This can be especially helpful if you have a collection of tropical plants that all require high humidity.
5. Bathroom or kitchen location: Consider placing your Calathea in a bathroom or kitchen, as these areas tend to have naturally higher humidity levels due to showering or cooking. Just be sure to provide adequate light for your plant in these spaces.
In addition to increasing humidity, it’s important to ensure that your Calathea is receiving proper care in terms of watering and light. Overwatering can also cause leaf curling, so be sure to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. Calatheas also prefer indirect, bright light, so avoid placing them in direct sunlight.
By taking steps to increase humidity and providing proper care, you can help save your Calathea with curling leaves and promote healthier growth.
