The Peacock Calathea (Calathea makoyana) is a striking indoor plant known for its beautiful, vibrant foliage with intricate patterns that resemble a peacock’s feathers. Its lush, green leaves have purple undersides, making it a real showstopper in your home or office. Here’s a care guide to help you keep your Peacock Calathea healthy and thriving:

1. Lighting

• Indirect Light: Calatheas prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, causing brown spots or fading of their vibrant patterns.
• Low Light Tolerance: While they can tolerate lower light levels, their growth will slow down, and the colors of the leaves may not be as vivid.

2. Watering

• Consistent Moisture: Calatheas like their soil to be consistently moist but not soggy. Water your plant when the top 1–2 inches of the soil feels dry.
• Watering Method: Use room temperature water, preferably filtered or distilled water, as Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals like chlorine and fluoride found in tap water.
• Humidity: Calatheas thrive in high humidity. They prefer 60-80% humidity. If your home is dry, consider placing the plant on a humidity tray or using a humidifier, especially during winter.

3. Soil

• Well-Draining Soil: Calatheas need well-draining, moisture-retentive soil. A peat-based potting mix mixed with some perlite or orchid bark works well. The soil should retain moisture without becoming soggy.

4. Temperature

• Ideal Range: They prefer temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Avoid placing them in areas with drafts, air conditioning, or heating vents, as rapid temperature changes can stress the plant.

5. Fertilization

• Feed During Growing Season: During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your Peacock Calathea once a month with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause brown leaf tips and damage to the roots.
• Rest Period: In fall and winter, the plant’s growth slows down, and it doesn’t require as much fertilization. Cut back to feeding every 6-8 weeks.

6. Pruning and Cleaning

• Pruning: You don’t need to prune the Peacock Calathea much, but you can trim off any yellow or dead leaves with sterilized scissors to keep it looking tidy.
• Cleaning Leaves: The large, glossy leaves can collect dust, so wipe them gently with a soft cloth dampened with water. This will keep the leaves looking shiny and allow the plant to “breathe” more easily.

7. Pests and Problems

• Common Pests: Calatheas can be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Check the undersides of leaves regularly, and if you spot pests, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Leaf Curling/Browning: If you notice curling or browning tips on the leaves, it could be due to low humidity, underwatering, or exposure to cold drafts. Ensure you’re providing adequate humidity, consistent watering, and a stable temperature.
• Leaf Yellowing: This can occur from overwatering or poor drainage. Make sure the pot has drainage holes, and the soil isn’t constantly waterlogged.

8. Repotting

• When to Repot: Repot your Peacock Calathea every 1-2 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger than the current one to avoid root rot from excess moisture.
• Best Time to Repot: Repot in the spring when the plant is actively growing.

9. Propagation

• Division: The best way to propagate Calatheas is by dividing the plant during repotting. Carefully separate the rhizomes (root clumps) and plant them in separate pots with fresh soil.
• Humidity: Keep the new plants in a humid environment and water them consistently until they establish roots.

10. Leaf Movement

• One of the unique traits of Calatheas is their nyctinasty, or leaf movement. The leaves “close” at night and “open” again during the day, which is a natural response to light levels.

Quick Care Summary:

• Light: Bright, indirect light.
• Water: Keep soil consistently moist (water when top 1-2 inches dry).
• Humidity: High humidity (60-80%).
• Temperature: 65°F-80°F (18°C-27°C).
• Soil: Well-draining, peat-based mix.
• Fertilizer: Monthly in spring and summer, with a diluted balanced fertilizer.

With proper care, your Peacock Calathea will reward you with its striking foliage and thrive as a beautiful indoor plant!

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