Plant : peacock plant

Care Instructions:

Calathea makoyana, commonly known as Peacock Plant, is a striking indoor plant admired for its ornate, feather-like leaves that display a beautiful pattern of dark green and light green with pinkish-red undersides. This plant is particularly valued for its ability to thrive in low-light environments, making it a popular choice for indoor gardening. The Peacock Plant requires a bit more attention to maintain its humidity and moisture needs, but its stunning foliage makes the effort worthwhile.

Light

Peacock Plant thrives in bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate lower light conditions, its vibrant leaf patterns are best maintained with sufficient light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to fade or burn.

Water

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring that the pot has good drainage. Overwatering or allowing the soil to dry out completely can cause the leaves to curl or develop brown edges.

Soil

Calathea makoyana prefers well-draining soil, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and potting soil. The soil should retain moisture but also allow excess water to drain away to prevent root rot.

Temperature

The ideal temperature range for Peacock Plant is between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). It is sensitive to cold and should be kept away from drafts or temperatures below 60°F (16°C).

Humidity

This plant prefers high humidity levels, ideally above 60%. In dry indoor environments, consider misting the plant regularly, using a humidity tray, or placing it near a humidifier to maintain adequate moisture.

Fertilizer

Feed your Peacock Plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring through summer). Reduce feeding in the fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows.

Best Placement Ideas

• Living Rooms: Ideal for adding a touch of tropical elegance to living spaces with bright, indirect light.
• Bedrooms: Suitable for bedrooms, where its air-purifying qualities can improve the indoor environment.
• Bathrooms: Perfect for bathrooms, where the naturally higher humidity levels help the plant thrive.

Common Issues

Pests: Peacock Plant can attract spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Regularly inspect the plant and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Diseases: Overwatering can lead to root rot, while low humidity can cause leaf browning and curling. Ensure proper watering practices and maintain high humidity to prevent these issues.

Things to Watch Out For

Monitor for signs of leaf curling or browning edges, which may indicate improper light, watering, or humidity conditions. Adjust care practices as needed to keep the plant healthy and vibrant.

Propagation Tips

Propagation Method: Calathea makoyana can be propagated through division. During repotting, carefully separate the plant at the roots and pot the divisions in fresh, well-draining soil.

Best Time to Propagate: The best time to propagate is during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Maintenance Tips

Pruning: Remove any yellow or damaged leaves to maintain the plant’s appearance and health. Regular pruning can also help control the plant’s size and shape.

Repotting: If grown in containers, repot every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Use a well-draining potting mix and a container with adequate drainage holes.