Calathea

Calatheas thrive in medium, indirect sunlight but tolerate lower light levels too. Bright direct sunlight can cause the stunning colours on their leaves to fade, with prolonged exposure likely to burn and scorch their leaves.

Calatheas enjoy weekly waterings, allowing the top 2’ of soil to dry out partially. In winter, we recommend watering less frequently to prevent overwatering and root rot. This plant is not very drought tolerant, and extended periods of dryness will cause leaf edges to brown.

Your Calathea will also appreciate being placed in a humid environment, which you can create with by misting it frequently, placing it close to other plants or on a pebble tray partly filled with water. Calatheas thrive in steamy bathrooms and kitchens.

Calatheas enjoy temperatures ranging from 18-25ºC. Avoid abrupt temperature changes and cold drafts.

Feed with general houseplant fertiliser monthly during the growing season (spring to summer).

Calatheas are non-toxic and suitable for homes with small children and pets.

If your Calathea’s water and humidity needs are being met but it still suffers from yellowing, burnt edges - the problem may be your tap water. Let it sit overnight before watering your plant or switch to filtered water. Restore their leaves’ natural shine by dusting her with a wet cloth.

• Yellowing leaves and burnt tips: suggests your plant has been scorched by direct sunlight or watered with tap water containing high levels of fluoride.

• Limp, drooping leaves which are brown and curling: suggests your plant is thirsty and dry. Increase the humidity by regularly misting, and make sure you are watering regularly (weekly), but allowing the soil to drain properly, and the top 2 inches of the soil to dry out before the next watering session.