How to Purchase the Perfect Calathea

Your Guide to buying the best Calatheas

Overview

Calatheas are a beautiful and unique houseplant, characterized by their lush foliage and vibrant colors. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, making them ideal for both experienced and novice gardeners. Whether you're looking for a small, low-maintenance plant or a large, statement piece, there are Calatheas that will fit the bill. This buying guide will provide helpful tips to guide you in your selection and ensure you get the perfect Calathea for your home.

Key features

  1. Light: Calatheas are sensitive to light, so be sure to pick a location with bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun exposure, as this can cause the leaves to burn.
  2. Humidity: Calatheas prefer high humidity, so consider investing in a humidifier to keep the humidity in your home at an ideal level.
  3. Watering: Calatheas should be watered regularly, as they prefer moist soil. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
  4. Fertilizer: Fertilize your Calathea every two to four weeks during the spring and summer months, but do not overfertilize in order to avoid burning the leaves.
  5. Potting: Choose a potting soil that is well-draining and has a high organic matter content. Consider repotting your Calathea every couple of years to ensure that it is in the proper soil.
  6. Temperature: Calatheas thrive in warm temperatures, so make sure that the room where it is kept is between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. Pests: Calatheas can be prone to pests such as mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites, so inspect the plant regularly and take action if you spot any of these critters.

See the most popular Calatheas on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Low Maintenance: Calatheas are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. They only require occasional watering and occasional pruning for optimal health.
  • Air Purifying: Calatheas help to purify the air in your home by removing impurities and allergens from the air.
  • Aesthetic: Calatheas come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They are perfect for adding a unique and attractive touch to any space.
  • Long-Lasting: Calatheas have a long life-span and can last for years with proper care and maintenance.

Cons

  • Light Requirements: Calatheas require bright, indirect light and can suffer from leaf burn if placed in an area with too much direct sun.
  • Temperature Requirements: Calatheas prefer higher temperatures and can be harmed by temperatures below 55F.
  • Humidity: Calatheas also require high humidity to thrive, and may suffer if the air around them is too dry.
  • Pests: Calatheas can be susceptible to pests such as mealybugs, thrips, and scale insects.
  • Water Requirements: Calatheas need to be watered frequently but can suffer from root rot if overwatered.

Best alternatives

  1. Sansevierias - Also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, these succulent plants are known for their unique foliage and their ability to tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
  2. Ficus Elasticas - Another popular choice, these plants come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are known for their ability to thrive in low light.
  3. Philodendrons - These tropical plants are known for their large, glossy leaves and their ability to thrive in a variety of environments.
  4. Dracaenas - These popular houseplants come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are known for their ability to tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
  5. Pothos - These low-maintenance plants are known for their easy care and for their ability to thrive in a variety of environments.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Potting Soil - A high-quality soil that provides adequate nutrients to the plants.
  • Fertilizer - A fertilizer specifically formulated to provide the necessary nutrients for Calatheas.
  • Pots - A wide range of pots that are suitable for Calatheas.
  • Plant stakes - Plant stakes to help support the Calatheas.
  • Terrariums - Terrariums to provide a microclimate for the Calatheas.
  • Humidifiers - Humidifiers to provide additional humidity to the Calatheas.
  • Pruning Shears - Pruning shears to keep the Calatheas in shape.
  • Watering Can - A watering can to provide consistent and adequate water to the Calatheas.

Common questions

  1. What types of Calatheas are there? Calatheas come in a variety of shapes, colors, and sizes. Some common varieties include the Crisped Leaf Calathea, the Prayer Plant Calathea, the Rattlesnake Plant Calathea, and the Zebra Plant Calathea.
  2. Do Calatheas need direct sunlight? Calatheas prefer bright, indirect sunlight and high humidity. They should not be placed in direct sunlight, as this can cause leaf scorching.
  3. How often should I water my Calathea? Water your Calathea when the top inch of soil is dry. Make sure not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.
  4. What is the ideal temperature for Calatheas? Calatheas prefer temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
  5. Do Calatheas require fertilizing? Calatheas should be fertilized every two weeks during the spring and summer growing season. During the fall and winter, you should reduce the frequency to once a month.
  6. How can I increase the humidity for my Calatheas? You can increase the humidity for your Calatheas by misting the leaves frequently or placing a humidifier nearby. You can also place your Calathea pot on top of a tray filled with pebbles and water.

Trivia

Calatheas are often referred to as the “living plant jewellery” or “living jewellery” due to their beautiful foliage and their ability to be kept in a small container. The plant is also known to be low maintenance, making them perfect for those who don’t have the time to dedicate to a full garden. Additionally, they are very popular as houseplants, and can even be used in terrariums. Above all, they make for an excellent conversation starter - when asked where they got their plant from, they can proudly show off their Calathea! Source: Gardening Know How

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.