| Houseplant
Cultural
information: The Calathea family contains over 300 species of
unusual plants.
Some of them are a bit difficult to care for. If the water in your area is
extremely hard, or of poor quality it is best to water your
Calathea plants with bottled water. Hard water
will cause leaf spotting. If you're fortunate enough to have soft
water let the water sit out over night before watering your
Calathea plants. If you have an aquarium your can recycle the tank
water, for watering your plants. No water beats used aquarium
water for watering sensitive houseplants.
Place your Calathea roseopicat in bright filtered or indirect light.
East, west or north windows should do nicely. Avoid hot sunny
locations as the plants leaves will tend to curl and burn. During
periods of extreme cold remove the Calathea roseopicta from the window
to avoid chilling.
Keep your Calathea roseopicta on a pebble tray to increase
the humidity level near the plant, but do not allow your plant
to sit in water. Calathea's prefer a warm location, away from cold
drafts. Keep the soil moist but not soggy.
Excessive fertilizing also can lead to leaf spots on Calthea
roseopicta. Your Calathea should be fertilized about four times per
year.
Propagation is very difficult in our dry climate and is not recommended.
Common houseplant pests include: Spider mites.
Calathea roseopicta is available in 4", 6" and
8" containers at your local garden center or floral shop.
Once you master Calathea care... this plant will reward you for
years to come with its beautiful foliage.
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