Calathea lancifolia is one of the many species of basket marante that also feels at home in the living room under good conditions and in a favorable location. Care requires some specialist knowledge. How to properly care for Calathea lancifolia.
How do I care for Calathe Lancifolia properly?
To properly care for Calathea lancifolia, you should water regularly with lime-free water, do not let the root ball dry out, increase the humidity, fertilize once a month, repot in spring and shorten shoots if necessary.
What should you consider when watering Calathea lancifolia?
The root ball must never dry out completely. However, the roots must not be directly in the water. Water the ornamental plant regularly with lime-free water or rainwater. Always pour off excess water straight away.
Since Calathea lancifolia only thrives when the humidity is high enough, you need to spray the leaves regularly with water. Setting up water bowls is also recommended.
How to properly fertilize Calathea lancifolia?
When fertilizing Calathea lancifolia, you should not overdo it. It is enough if you add some liquid fertilizer (€6.00 on Amazon) to the water once a month. Half of the dosage stated on the package is sufficient.
When is the best time to repot Calathea lancifolia?
The best time for repotting is early spring. You only repot when the root ball has rooted completely through the previous pot. Place the calathea in fresh substrate. After repotting, you must not give any fertilizer for several months.
Is cutting necessary?
If the Calathea lancifolia has become too large, cut the shoots back to a third in spring. Cut spent flowers and dead leaves directly at the base.
What diseases and pests can occur?
Diseases only occur with incorrect care such as waterlogging.
Pests such as spider mites, aphids and thrips cause problems for the plant, especially in winter when the air in the room is too dry.
How to care for Calathea lancifolia in winter?
- Temperatures not below 18 degrees
- spray frequently with water
- make it dark for more than 12 hours per day
- water less
- do not fertilize
Calathea lancifolia comes from the Brazilian rainforest and does not tolerate cold. Even in winter, the ambient temperatures must not fall below 18 degrees.
Tip
Unlike Calathea rufibarba, Calathea lancifolia is not easy to flower. It is mainly grown because of its beautiful leaf decoration. The lance-like leaves are dark green and grow up to 30 centimeters long.