Calathea Makoyana 6”

Light
- Bright, indirect light is ideal. Calathea Makoyana thrives in well-lit areas but cannot tolerate direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to fade or scorch.
- A spot near an east-facing window or a north-facing window works well, or use sheer curtains to diffuse strong light from south or west-facing windows.
- It can tolerate lower light conditions, but the plant may grow more slowly and lose some vibrancy in low light.

Watering
- Calathea Makoyana prefers moist, but not soggy soil. Water when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
- Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater if possible, as the plant is sensitive to chemicals like fluoride and chlorine found in tap water, which can cause browning of the leaf edges.
- Water less in winter, as the plant's growth slows down, but don't allow the soil to dry out completely.

Humidity
- Calathea Makoyana loves high humidity. Aim for humidity levels between 60-80%. If the air is too dry, the leaves may curl or develop brown edges.
- Use a humidifier, place the plant on a humidity tray (a shallow tray with water and pebbles), or mist the leaves regularly to maintain moisture.
- Bathrooms and kitchens are good places for Calatheas due to their naturally higher humidity.

Temperature
- Keep your Calathea Makoyana in a warm environment with temperatures between 65-80°F.
- Avoid placing it near drafts, heaters, or air conditioners, as the plant is sensitive to temperature fluctuations and cold drafts.

Soil
- Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix. A mix that includes peat, perlite, and orchid bark works well, as it retains moisture while ensuring good aeration and drainage.
- The soil should remain moist but never waterlogged.

Fertilizer
- Feed your Calathea Makoyana every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength.
- Avoid fertilizing during fall and winter when the plant’s growth slows down.

Pruning and Cleaning
- Remove any yellow or damaged leaves to encourage new growth and keep the plant looking its best.
- Clean the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and improve the plant’s ability to photosynthesize. Be gentle, as the leaves are delicate.

Repotting
- Calathea Makoyana doesn’t require frequent repotting. Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time to repot.
- Use a pot with drainage holes and fresh soil. Choose a slightly larger pot to avoid excess water retention in the soil.

Pests
- Calatheas are susceptible to pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. Regularly inspect the plant for pests, especially on the undersides of leaves.
- If pests are present, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Keeping humidity high and air circulation good can help prevent infestations.

Humidity in Winter
- Indoor heating in winter can dry out the air, so it’s important to maintain humidity levels by using a humidifier or misting the plant more frequently.
- Avoid placing the plant near heat sources that can dry out the leaves or cause fluctuations in temperature.

Toxicity
- Calathea Makoyana is non-toxic to pets and humans, making it a safe choice for households with children or animals.

 Extra Tips:
- Rotate the plant periodically to ensure even growth, as Calatheas tend to grow toward the light.
- Avoid overwatering, as root rot can quickly become an issue if the plant is left sitting in water.
- Clean water is essential—using distilled or rainwater is recommended for preventing leaf browning.