Watering your Calathea is an important aspect of its care, as this plant requires consistent moisture to thrive. It’s generally recommended to water your Calathea once a week, allowing the top 2 inches of soil to dry out partially before watering again. This frequency ensures that the plant is receiving enough moisture without becoming waterlogged.
In the winter months, when the plant’s growth slows down, it’s advisable to adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Since the plant is not actively growing during this time, it requires less water. Overwatering during winter can lead to root rot, so it’s important to be mindful of this. You can reduce the frequency of watering to every 10-14 days, or even less if the soil takes longer to dry out.
It’s important to note that Calatheas are not very drought tolerant. Extended periods of dryness can cause the leaf edges to brown and become crispy. Therefore, it’s crucial to maintain a consistent watering schedule and avoid letting the soil completely dry out between waterings.
One way to check if your Calathea needs watering is by gently sticking your finger into the soil. If the top inch or two feels dry, it’s time to water. Additionally, you can also use a moisture meter to determine the moisture level of the soil. This can be especially helpful if you tend to forget or have difficulty judging the moisture content by touch alone.
When watering your Calathea, it’s important to use room temperature or lukewarm water. Cold water can shock the plant’s roots and potentially cause damage. You can either water the plant from the top or place it in a tray filled with water and allow the roots to soak up moisture from the bottom. Just ensure that you empty any excess water from the tray after about 15 minutes to prevent waterlogging.
In addition to regular watering, it’s beneficial to provide proper humidity for your Calathea. These plants naturally thrive in high humidity environments, so you can increase humidity levels by misting the leaves with water or placing the plant on a pebble tray filled with water. This will help prevent the leaf edges from browning and keep your Calathea looking healthy and vibrant.
Watering your Calathea once a week, allowing the top 2 inches of soil to dry out partially, is a good guideline to follow. Adjust the frequency in winter to prevent overwatering, and always be mindful of the moisture content of the soil. By providing consistent moisture and humidity, you can ensure that your Calathea remains happy and thriving.
