Calathea Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana Prayer Plant 12cm pot

Care Guide for Calathea Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana (Prayer Plant)

Calathea Ctenanthe Oppenheimiana, also known as the Prayer Plant, is a tropical houseplant that requires specific care to thrive. Here’s a comprehensive care guide and troubleshooting advice for common issues:

Basic Care Requirements

1. Light

• Ideal Light: Bright, indirect light is best. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves and cause fading.
• Low-Light Tolerance: The plant can tolerate lower light conditions but will grow slower. In extremely low light, the plant may lose its vibrant colors.

2. Watering

• Frequency: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Watering should be done when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
• Water Quality: Use distilled or rainwater whenever possible. Tap water can contain fluoride, chlorine, and salts that harm the plant and cause brown leaf tips.

3. Humidity

• Ideal Humidity: This plant thrives in high humidity, ideally 60% or more.
• Ways to Increase Humidity:
  • Place the plant on a pebble tray filled with water.
  • Use a humidifier nearby.
  • Group plants together to create a more humid microenvironment.

4. Temperature

• Optimal Temperature: Keep temperatures between 65°F – 80°F (18°C – 27°C).
• Avoid Drafts: Sudden temperature changes, drafts, or placing the plant near heating or cooling vents can cause stress.

5. Soil

• Type: Use a well-draining potting mix, preferably a mixture designed for tropical plants.
• Additives: You can mix in perlite or orchid bark to enhance drainage.

6. Fertilizing

• When to Fertilize: Feed during the growing season (spring and summer) every 4-6 weeks.
• Type of Fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength. Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter when the plant is in a dormant phase.

7. Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning: Trim any dead, yellow, or brown leaves regularly to promote new growth and maintain its appearance.
• Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and prevent root binding.

8. Propagation

• Method: Division during repotting is the best method to propagate Calathea. Gently separate the plant into smaller clumps, ensuring each clump has roots attached, and pot them individually.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Yellowing Leaves

• Cause: Overwatering is the most common reason for yellow leaves.
• Solution: Check the soil’s moisture level. Reduce watering frequency and ensure the pot has proper drainage.

2. Browning Leaf Edges or Tips

• Cause: This can be due to low humidity or the use of tap water that contains chemicals like fluoride and chlorine.
• Solution:
  • Increase humidity around the plant using a humidifier or misting it regularly.
  • Switch to distilled or filtered water for watering.

3. Curling Leaves

• Cause: Often, this is a sign of under-watering or low humidity.
• Solution:
  • Check the soil moisture and water if it feels dry.
  • Increase humidity levels around the plant.

4. Leggy or Slow Growth

• Cause: Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth or stunted growth.
• Solution: Move the plant to a brighter location with more indirect light.

5. Faded or Dull Leaves

• Cause: Exposure to direct sunlight can bleach the vibrant colours of the plant’s leaves.
• Solution: Move the plant to a spot with indirect light, away from direct sun.

6. Brown Spots on Leaves

• Cause: Brown spots can be a result of fungal or bacterial infections, usually due to overwatering or poor air circulation.
• Solution: Allow the soil to dry between watering and ensure the plant is in a location with good air circulation. Trim off the affected leaves.

7. Pests

• Common Pests: Spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids can attack this plant.
• Solution:
  • Regularly check the undersides of the leaves for pests.
  • Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
  • Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove dust and pests.