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Light
Give yourCalathea ornatamedium to bright indirect light.
Soil
Calathea ornatawill grow best in a loose, well-draining potting mix that holds onto moisture.
Some growers prefer to use a ready-made potting mix designed for African violets for their calatheas.
The Spruce / Phoebe Cheong
Water
Water yourCalathea ornataconsistently so that the soil stays moist but not soggy.
Overwatering can causeroot rot, which can kill the plant.
Avoid letting the soil dry out beyond the top inch or so between waterings.
The Spruce / Phoebe Cheong
Temperature and Humidity
Keep this tropical plant in a place with moderate temperatures and lots of humidity.
Stop fertilizing in the fall, when the plant goes dormant for the winter.
Resume fertilizing the following spring.
The Spruce / Phoebe Cheong
Propagating Calathea Ornata
PropagateCalathea ornataby dividing a mature, healthy plant.
Divide during repotting to avoid disturbing the plant more than once per year.
Treat insect pests with organic pesticides likeneem oilor remove them with horticultural soap.
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Here are some common problems withCalathea ornataand their causes.
Curling Leaves
Curling leaves are your plant’s way of telling you it needs a drink.
If your plant’s leaves are curling, give it a good soaking.
Keep an eye on the soil moisture to avoid drying out.
Consider your plant’s conditions and make adjustments.
Leaves Turning Yellow
Yellowing leaves can mean your plant is getting too much water.
In severe cases, they can be a sign of root rot.
Cut back on watering immediately.
Give it plenty of bright light, water (but not too much), and humidity.
It’s a finicky plant but these conditions should help it thrive.
Water yourCalathea ornataas soon as the soil shows signs of drying out.
Monitor the soil moisture regularly.
Note that you may need to water less frequently in the winter.
Calathea ornatais non-toxic to humans, cats, dogs, and horses.
