How Often to Water a Calathea
Calathea / Goeppertia spp. · Difficulty: Moderate to hard
Care Snapshot
| Light | Medium, filtered indirect light |
|---|---|
| Soil | Light, moisture-retentive mix with good aeration |
| Humidity | Needs high humidity (50-60%+) |
| Temperature | 18-26°C (65-79°F), no cold drafts |
Want a personalized schedule based on your pot size and light? Try the free watering calculator.
Signs of Overwatering
Soft, mushy stems near the soil line and yellowing lower leaves suggest overwatering, especially if the mix isn't aerated enough to dry between waterings.
Signs of Underwatering
Crispy, curling leaf edges are the hallmark of an underwatered (or humidity-starved) calathea; the leaves often curl inward like a tube to conserve moisture.
Adjusting for the Seasons
Calathea is sensitive to tap water minerals as well as watering frequency, so inconsistent leaf browning is often a water-quality issue, not just a schedule issue.
Pro Tip
Use filtered or distilled water, keep the soil evenly moist (never bone dry, never soggy), and pair with a humidifier for the best-looking leaves.
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