Calathea makoyana, also known as the Peacock Plant, is a beautiful indoor plant that requires consistent watering to thrive. To ensure the health and vitality of your Calathea, it is important to understand its watering needs and provide the appropriate care.
The first thing to note is that Calathea makoyana prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not overly saturated. This means that the soil should never be allowed to completely dry out, as this can lead to stress and wilting. On the other hand, overwatering can cause root rot and other fungal diseases, so it’s important to find a balance.
A good rule of thumb is to water your Calathea when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch. This can be determined by inserting your finger into the soil and checking the moisture level. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. However, if the soil still feels slightly damp, it’s best to wait a little longer before watering again.
It’s worth mentioning that the frequency of watering may vary depending on factors such as the temperature, humidity, and the size of the pot. In warmer and drier conditions, Calathea makoyana may require more frequent watering, while in cooler and more humid environments, it may need less frequent watering.
To water your Calathea makoyana, it’s important to provide a thorough watering. This means that you should pour water onto the soil until it begins to drain out of the bottom of the pot. This ensures that the water reaches the deeper roots and promotes healthy growth.
It’s also crucial to use well-draining soil and containers with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. This allows excess water to escape, preventing the roots from sitting in water for extended periods. If your Calathea is in a pot without drainage holes, it’s important to be cautious and not overwater, as this can lead to water accumulation at the bottom of the pot.
In addition to regular watering, Calathea makoyana benefits from increased humidity. This can be achieved by misting the leaves with water or placing the plant on a tray filled with water and pebbles. The evaporating water creates a humid microclimate around the plant, mimicking its natural habitat.
To summarize, Calathea makoyana should be watered when the top inch of the soil is dry. Thoroughly water the plant until it drains out of the bottom of the pot, and ensure that the soil is well-draining. Pay attention to the temperature, humidity, and pot size, as these factors can influence the frequency of watering. Remember to provide increased humidity to promote optimal growth.
I hope this detailed answer helps you understand how often to water your Calathea makoyana. Happy gardening!
