Calathea plants are beloved for their striking foliage, featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colors. However, they can be quite finicky and sensitive to changes in their environment. If your Calathea is showing signs of distress, such as curling leaves, brown edges, or drooping stems, don’t panic—these plants can often be revived with the right care adjustments.
The key to saving a struggling Calathea is identifying the underlying issue and making the necessary corrections. This guide will walk you through the common problems Calatheas face and provide actionable solutions to help restore your plant to full health.
Steps to save a dying calathea plant
Step 1: Diagnose the Problem
The first step in rescuing your Calathea is determining what’s causing its decline. Different symptoms indicate different issues, and treating the wrong problem can further stress the plant. If your Calathea’s leaves are turning yellow, overwatering may be the cause. When the roots sit in waterlogged soil for too long, they can begin to rot, preventing the plant from absorbing nutrients properly. Yellowing leaves can also be a result of tap water containing chlorine and fluoride, which are harmful to these sensitive plants.
If you notice brown, crispy edges on the leaves, low humidity is likely to blame. Calatheas originate from tropical environments where the air is consistently humid. When exposed to dry indoor conditions, especially during colder months when heating systems are running, their delicate foliage begins to dry out. Another potential cause of brown leaf edges is inconsistent watering or exposure to hard tap water, both of which can lead to dehydration.
When the leaves start curling or drooping, it’s usually a sign that the plant is not receiving enough moisture. This could be due to underwatering, exposure to extreme temperatures, or low humidity levels. A healthy Calathea should have perky, upright leaves, so any sign of wilting indicates that something is off. In more severe cases, you might notice moldy soil or fungal growth, which suggests overwatering and poor air circulation. A musty smell coming from the soil is a strong indication that root rot may have already set in.
Another common issue that affects Calatheas is pest infestations. If you spot tiny webs, sticky residue, or small insects moving on the leaves, your plant may be dealing with spider mites, aphids, or mealybugs. These pests feed on the plant’s sap, weakening it over time. They often thrive in dry conditions, making humidity control an essential part of prevention.
Step 2: Adjust Your Watering Routine
One of the most critical factors in keeping a Calathea healthy is proper watering. These plants are highly sensitive to both overwatering and underwatering, making it essential to strike the right balance. The best way to determine when to water is by checking the soil’s moisture level. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil—if it feels dry at this depth, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, wait a few more days before checking again.
The type of water you use is just as important as how often you water. Calatheas are sensitive to the chemicals commonly found in tap water, such as chlorine and fluoride, which can cause leaf discoloration and tip burn. To avoid this, use filtered, distilled, or rainwater whenever possible. When watering, do so thoroughly until excess water drains out of the bottom of the pot, but be sure to empty the saucer afterward to prevent root rot from stagnant water.
Step 3: Increase Humidity Level
Calatheas thrive in environments with at least 50–60% humidity, which can be challenging to maintain indoors, especially in drier climates. If your home’s air is too dry, increasing humidity is essential to prevent leaf browning and curling. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using a humidifier near the plant to create a stable, moisture-rich environment.
Another option is to create a pebble tray by placing a shallow tray filled with small stones and water beneath the pot. As the water evaporates, it increases humidity around the plant. Grouping multiple houseplants together can also help create a microclimate with higher humidity. While misting the leaves may offer temporary relief, it’s not a long-term solution and can sometimes lead to fungal issues if the leaves remain too damp for too long.
Step 4: Optimize Light and Placement
Light plays a crucial role in the health of a Calathea, and improper lighting conditions can lead to fading colors, slow growth, and overall decline. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light but cannot tolerate direct sunlight, which can scorch their delicate leaves. If your Calathea is placed in direct sun, move it to a spot where it receives filtered light, such as near an east- or north-facing window.
If your home doesn’t get enough natural light, you can supplement it with a grow light. LED grow lights with adjustable brightness settings are an excellent option for maintaining healthy growth. However, avoid placing your Calathea in completely dark areas, as insufficient light can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to disease and pests.
Step 5: Improve Soil and Drainage
Calatheas require a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix to stay healthy. If your plant is struggling and the soil appears compacted or soggy, repotting may be necessary. The best soil mixture for Calatheas includes peat, perlite, and orchid bark, which help with aeration and drainage. If your current soil retains too much moisture, consider adding extra perlite to improve drainage.
Equally important is ensuring the pot has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. If the pot lacks drainage, water will accumulate at the bottom, leading to root rot. When repotting, inspect the roots carefully—if any are mushy or blackened, trim them off before placing the plant in fresh soil.
Step 6: Maintain a Stable Temperature and Airflow
Calatheas are sensitive to temperature fluctuations and drafts. Ideally, they should be kept in temperatures between 65–80°F (18–27°C). Sudden temperature drops, such as those caused by placing the plant near an air conditioner, open window, or drafty door, can shock the plant and cause its leaves to droop. Similarly, placing it near a heating vent can dry out the foliage and lead to browning edges.
While these plants appreciate humidity, they also need good airflow to prevent mold and fungal growth. Ensure that the surrounding environment is well-ventilated without being too breezy.
Step 7: Treat Pests and Fungal Issues
If your Calathea is suffering from a pest infestation, quick action is necessary to prevent further damage. Neem oil is an effective natural remedy—dilute it with water and spray the plant, paying close attention to the undersides of the leaves where pests tend to hide. Insecticidal soap is another option for eliminating common pests like spider mites and aphids.
For fungal issues caused by overwatering, remove affected soil and allow the plant to dry out before repotting. Good airflow and proper watering habits will help prevent future fungal problems.
Step 8: Prune and Encourage New Growth
Pruning damaged leaves helps redirect the plant’s energy toward producing healthy new growth. Use sterilized scissors to trim off yellow or brown leaves, being careful not to remove too many at once. If only the edges are brown, you can trim them off without cutting into the healthy portion of the leaf.
Once your Calathea starts recovering, you’ll notice fresh leaves unfurling, which is a sign that it’s regaining strength.
Preventing Future Issues: Long-Term Care Tips
After reviving your Calathea, maintaining consistent care is essential to keep it thriving. Regularly check soil moisture before watering, ensure the humidity levels remain stable, and keep the plant in a spot with adequate indirect light. Monitor for pests and make adjustments to watering and humidity as needed. Over time, these small habits will keep your Calathea healthy and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
A struggling Calathea doesn’t mean it’s beyond saving. By identifying the root cause of the problem and making the right adjustments, you can bring your plant back to life. Whether it’s improving watering habits, increasing humidity, or providing better drainage, these steps will help restore your Calathea’s lush, tropical beauty. With patience and consistent care, your plant will thrive once again!
