Ever seen a houseplant with leaves like a fancy suit? That’s the Calathea Ornata, a tropical beauty with stunning pinstripe veins. But don’t worry, even if you’re a plant newbie, you can totally care for this pretty plant! This guide will give you the basics on light, water, humidity, and more, so your Calathea thrives and doesn’t throw any planty tantrums.
So You Brought a New Calathea Ornata Home? Here’s How to Plant It!
You must have the below things in your arsenal:
- GlovesÂ
- Pot with drainage holes, slightly larger than your Calathea’s current pot
- Houseplant potting mix (peat-free and well-draining works best)
- Watering can
The Process:
Water your Calathea Ornata thoroughly the day before transplanting. This helps reduce stress and keeps the roots hydrated.
Half-fill the pot with your chosen potting mix. Remember, drainage is key, so ensure the pot has holes!
Carefully remove your Calathea from its current pot. Loosen the soil around the roots if needed, being mindful not to damage them.
Position your Calathea in the new pot, ensuring the top of the root ball sits slightly below the rim. Don’t bury it too deep!
Gently add more potting mix around the edges, filling in any spaces and ensuring the plant sits snugly in its new home. A thin layer of mix on top of the root ball is fine.
How to Care for a Calathea Ornata
Light:
This is one of the most crucial things that you should focus on. Calathea Ornata doesn’t do well if you’re feeding it direct sunlight. In fact, doing so will burn its leaves and fade the lovely patterns – You don’t want that now do you?
So the trick here is to give it bright but indirect light near an east or north-facing window. You can also add sheer curtains to a south-facing one.
Water:
Keep the soil moist but not soggy, like a damp sponge, not a puddle. Stick your finger in the soil – water only when it feels dry an inch down. Water more often (1-2 times a week) in summer, less in winter. Use room-temperature water, and always ensure your pot has drainage holes to avoid drowning the roots.
Soil:
Mix equal parts houseplant potting mix, perlite (for drainage), and sphagnum moss or coco coir (for moisture). Calatheas love moisture, so the moss/coco coir is key.
Humidity And Temperature:
High humidity is a must. Group your plant with others that love humidity, use a pebble tray filled with water, or get a humidifier. Dry air dries out the leaves, making them vulnerable to pests. Keep it warm (65-85°F) and away from drafts and air conditioners.
Fertilizer:
During spring and summer (its active season), feed it diluted liquid fertilizer every two weeks. Apply it only to the soil, not the leaves, to avoid burning.
Propagation:
Cuttings won’t work, but dividing does! Separate healthy clumps with their own roots and leaves, pot them up, and keep them moist and humid. They might be a bit shocked at first, but they’ll bounce back.
Common Problems Associated With Calathea Ornata
- Pests: Watch out for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Insecticidal soap should take care of them.
- Yellow leaves: Overwatering alert! Check the soil before watering.
- Brown edges: If the edges are browning, it signifies lack of humidity. Try increasing humidity using a humidifier indoors.
- Curling leaves: The sight of curling leaves means one thing: You’re not watering the plant thoroughly.
Lifespan and Life Cycles of a Pinstripe Prayer Plant
Like all living things, the Calathea Ornata has its own unique lifespan and life cycle. With proper care, this stunning plant can grace your home for several years, adding a touch of tropical elegance to your space. Here’s a peek into its journey:
Growth Rate: This isn’t a fast-growing plant, so don’t expect it to shoot up overnight. This plant has the tendency to reach its full height of around 2-3 feet. Patience is key!
Flowering Time: The Calathea Ornata can surprise you with small, orange blooms in late spring or summer.
Lifespan: With consistent care and attention to its needs, your Pinstripe Prayer Plant can live for several years, becoming a familiar and cherished part of your home.
Seasonal Changes: Like many plants, your Calathea Ornata might experience subtle changes with the seasons. In the winter months, its growth may slow down, and you might need to water it less often. This is normal, so don’t be alarmed! Just adjust your care routine accordingly.
Repotting: As your plant grows, it might eventually outgrow its pot. Repotting every 1-2 years into a slightly larger container with fresh potting mix will keep it happy and healthy. Choose a pot with drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
Final Words
So, that’s how easy it is to grow and care for your Calathea Ornata. Along with the insights mentioned above, it also takes dedication and love to cultivate a thriving relationship with your Calathea Ornata.
May your journey be filled with growth, beauty, and the simple joys of nurturing life. Happy planting!