Calathea Medallion Care And Secret Tips – Ultimate Guide
Calathea Medallion Care: It is the Calathea Medallion ( Calathea veitchiana) is a favourite of those who are avid gardeners. The leaves fold slightly at night, almost as if praying – leading them to be misinterpreted as prayer Plants sometimes. These tend to be “low-light” plant species that can lighten the darkest of corners.
The vibrant green patterns appear on the top of the medallion leaves, as well as the deep burgundy under which is revealed in an evening “prayer”. This is what makes this Calathea Medallion one of the most attractive plants that could be placed.
However, the care and maintenance of Calathea Medallions are more difficult and endurance than other indoor varieties. They need to be protected from direct sunlight and maintained in moderately moist and well-drained soil. They should be fertilized to a moderate degree in the course of growth and repotted less than once per year if you wish to see them grow and spread.
The biggest issue they face is creating the proper conditions. Calathea, origin native to Brazil. They are considered to be greenhouse plants. They require conditions that are uncomfortably hot for an area that is inhabited by people of average age. They also require high humidity.
Calathea Medallion Care Summary
| Lighting needs: | Bright indirect sunlight that is medium to bright. |
| Water needs: | In case the highest 25% of the soil is dry, do a check every week. |
| Fertilizer: | A high nitrogen feed is a common event at least once per month in summer. |
| Soil: | Well-drained, rich as well as loose compost. |
| Humidity: | 50-60% humidity. |
| Temperature: | 18-27degC (65-80degF). |
| Where to purchase: | Try Etsy. |
| Common problems: | The absence of humidity. |
Where to Plant Them? Indoor and Outdoor
Calathea Medallions can be grown outside in zones 8 and above, particularly 9 to 11. This covers the Southern areas of states like Florida, Louisiana, Texas and California and many more.
The climate for the growth of Calathea Medallions needs to be humid and warm given its habitat, which is the rainforest climate in South America.
Calathea Medallion Calathea Medallion prefers a temperature that ranges from 65 to 85 degrees F (above the temperature of the room that is to say). They can be very sensitive. Long-term exposure to temperatures lower than 55°F, cold drafts or dryness may be harmful to plants. They’ll exhibit certain symptoms which are listed below as soon as they are noticed.
Calathea Medallions are medium-sized tubers that typically attain heights of 1 and 2 feet. This, together with the need for humid and hot weather makes them excellent indoor plants if you can take care of them.
Calathea Medallions can bloom outdoors, but they are not able to use them indoors. However, the vibrant shades of its leaves can bring brightness to an indoor garden.
Best Location in the Garden
Based on the requirements of the climate that Calathea Medallions must meet, they can be kept outdoors for long periods only in tropical warm climates, like Zones 9 and higher.
They are found at the base of trees that are in the forest, which indicates that they must be kept in shade or areas of diffused light. The direct, intense sunlight can cause leaves to lose colour and appearance.
The soil in which Calathea plants grow must be well-drained and porous. Soggy and excessively waterlogged soil should be prevented. Additionally, they should be fed small quantities of granular fertilizers every 3-4 months, if they are in direct contact with the elements outside. Mulch can help keep the plant’s base warm, but keep an eye out for infestations of slugs.
Where do you place the Calathea Medallions in the house
Calathea Medallion plants need to be exposed to ambient, diffuse and indirect light for as long as possible throughout the day.
Affixing them to east or south-facing window, but out of range of direct sunlight, or even behind a curtain could be optimal.
Avoid direct sunlight as plants can get sunburned spots and reduce colouration and variegation.
Medallions need humidity and warmth for survival, which makes them ideal to be used in the bathroom or kitchen.
They are fragile and are not a fan of temperatures that fluctuate. Therefore, they must be protected from direct blasts from air conditioners windows, unsealed windows or any other areas that have cold drafts.
Calatheas are quick to display the effects of discomfort. The signs that indicate discomfort are listed below and are worth checking for.
Related Articles
Here are the five steps to take to care of a snake plant
Philodendron Black Cardinal Care
How To Fix Root Rot Fiddle Leaf Fig Fast
Moving Plants In and Out
Gardeners who live outside face a minor problem. On the other, the other hand, temperatures below 55 ° will result in harm to the Calathea Medallion plant. On the other side, medallions don’t like to be moved.
In the end, If you grow your plant outdoors in cold temperatures, You may want to keep your plant as warm as possible, without bringing them inside.
If it is necessary pot the Medallion in a sufficient pot with a mixture of soil and soil from the garden bed, however, be aware that the best time to potting is during the beginning instead of the closing of the season of growth.
Calathea Medallion Soil Mixture
Similar to most house plants Calathea Medallions prefer porous, nutrient-rich, and well-drained soil. Minerals like peat, moist peat, or moist vermiculite can be added to the soil used for potting.
If the soil has been compacted before the time you purchase the plant, loosen it. The best blend is the mixture of perlite, potting soil and peat moss. It can hold enough moisture and let it drain as required.
Coco charcoal, coir or orchid bark may be mixed. Avoid soils that have excessive amounts of compost or bark in them because they can attract fungus and gnats.
The African Violet mix of good quality can be used as a ready-to-use potting medium that is fertile, holds water well and drain well.
Type of Pot to Choose and How to Plant Calathea Medallions
Indoors, Calathea Medallion plants can be planted in ceramic, clay and plastic containers. It is best to choose pots that have drainage holes. Pebbles near the top of the container can aid in airflow and drainage.
It is essential to watch the amount of water you pour into pots with no drainage holes, to avoid plants being soaked in soil.
Calathea Medallion Fertilizers
Fertilizers should be used in a moderate manner using Calathea Medallions. Any general-purpose, leaf-preserving fertilizer used in the house plant nursery is suitable.
To ensure optimal use and to prevent overfertilization make sure to dilute the fertilizer by 1/4 of its normal strength before using.
The use of fertilizers about once per month during the growing season – which lasts from spring until the close of summer is a good idea. Fertilization needs to be reduced or stopped in winter.
Be careful not to over-fertilize as this could result in excessive mineral accumulation in the soil and cause harm to the plant. They may become sloppy or develop root burn, and eventually end up dying.
In contrast, slow growth, small plants, or closed/droopy leaves might indicate that it is necessary to increase the amount of fertilizer used.
Occasional Flushing May Be Necessary for Plant Health
To ensure an aesthetically pleasing plant, the soil needs to be flushed regularly. The plant should be taken to the sink or bathtub and let the water flow through your soil for a couple of minutes until the soil is removed.
Then allow the plant to dry completely before placing it back into its bright surroundings. After flushing, allow the soil time to completely dry. Fresh fertilizer can be added within a couple of weeks.
Calathea Medallion Watering
Calathea Medallions need to be regularly watered, but not completely submerging the soil. Any indoor plant does not want to be sat in muddy soil for a long period. And the Calathea Medallion is no exception. Prolonged exposure to soil that is soggy could cause root rot and other issues.
Calathea Medallions like soil with aeration that can drain well, but it must be kept moist but not saturated – a resemblance to an elongated sponge is discussed often.
The trick is deciding on how often your Calathea should be fed because it is contingent on the climate (warmth and humidity) in which the plant is kept.
Calathea Medallions are found in forests, at the foot of trees in the wild therefore they are accustomed to being wet at any time.
The primary danger to their health stems from being dry between the misting or watering.
Based on the conditions it is possible that the plants will require watering anywhere between weekly to daily and the soil must be inspected for dryness at or just beneath the surface.
Soil that is placed in containers made of ceramic or terracotta tends to dry quicker than soil that is placed in plastic or clay glazed containers.
Additionally, the growth of plants will decrease in the winter months, and this means it will require less moisture. The amount of watering should be controlled or increased according to these elements.
In the end, each plant will require different watering. Be sure to check the appearance of leaves, the location it is located, the surrounding air and the soil’s conditions before deciding on water.
Calathea Medallion Humidity: How to Maintain Humidity for Calathea Medallions
As we have explained the Calathea Medallions prefer to be found in humid and warm conditions. Dry conditions can affect the plants significantly, causing dry, brown tips and spongy stems.
If the Calathea isn’t growing in a greenhouse they need to be kept well-hydrated.
In addition to regular watering, there is a myriad of other options that could be implemented, such as but not only:
- Misting your plants at least once per week is a wonderful way to maintain the plants.
- In the winter months, it is possible to use a humidifier as the best option and it should be set to 50 per cent humidity.
- Lifting the sides of the pots off the tray, possibly using pebbles, will aid in keeping the moisture level as well as improve airflow and stop root decay.
- The kitchen or bathroom area could provide the ideal place to be for the same reasons.
Repotting Tips
Calathea Medallions do benefit from repotting once in a while.
However, Calatheas do not like being disturbed and shouldn’t be repeated more than once per year. A Medallion can be kept in the same container over two consecutive years.
The ideal time to repot is right before the season of growth. It involves the following steps if you are you are using a new pot
- Select a container that is 2″ larger in diameter than your current container and fill it up with potting soil to 1/3 of its capacity.
- Remove the entire plant Gently.
- Clean its roots thoroughly to get rid of all soil. Look for indications of illness (e.g. the root’s mold) and decay. Trim out any areas that need to be removed.
- Put your plant into the pot at the same height as the original pot and then add more of the loose, porous potting mix.
- Place the plant in a light place. Watch for several days to make sure that the plant stays well-nourished.
You can also pot it in the pot that you originally used this means you don’t want the plant to expand in size. In this case, you need to take the plant off and trim the roots by one third, so that those remaining rootstocks have space to spread. Rinse the pot thoroughly using soapy water, then dry, then fill it with fresh soil and potting mix as described previously mentioned.
Calathea Medallion Propagation
Calathea Medallions require a bit of planning and skill to reproduce, and they don’t like to be disturbed. Seeds or cuttings are not recommended, rather by splitting roots (rhizomes) in a fully grown plant.
The following steps must be followed when using homegrown Calathea:
- Select a mature and healthy plant. Avoid plants that are young or struggling.
- Then turn the pot upside down and pull out the mother plant as well as the rhizome or root system.
- Gently remove the individual stems and roots.
- Separate a whole stem with roots and leaves. Cut it off with a sharp and sterilized knife.
- Replant the newly cut-out section in a fresh pot using the same potting soil mixture that was used in the parent plant. This will ensure it is comfortable for the plant.
- Thoroughly soak the soil Then, make sure you remove the water.
- The newly planted plant should be placed in a dark spot far from bright sunlight, in a cooler area than the mature plant. Make sure the humidity is high and use stones underneath the plant, or perhaps an empty freezer bag to reduce the rate of evaporation. Mist it as often as you need.
Within a couple of weeks, the new leaves should start to appear, which indicates that your brand new Calathea Medallion is now stabilized and is ready to take its place alongside another plant(s).
Toxicity is not a risk From Calathea Medallion Plants
They are suitable for humans as well as animals. Housepets love cuddling with them.
Signs of Trouble and What to Watch Out for
Several indicators indicate the fact that the Calathea Medallion may be experiencing issues. This could be:
- Brown tips or brown leaves Tips that are brown or the browning of the entire leaf can indicate unhealthy nutrition and/or health issues As explained more in detail under the FAQs below.
- The leaf folds indefinitely, edges curl, or the plant becomes droopy This is due to the plant’s drying out due to insufficient humidity.
- Leaves that lose colour or variegation. Variegations occur in Calathea when they are exposed to sufficient amounts of bright light. If the leaves are consistently light or pale in colour with no typical white and green variegation, the plant should be relocated to a more bright spot in the home.
- Edge burn or tip burn on leaves, with an orange-yellow hue near the edges The cause, could be the result of excessive sunlight, however, the most likely reason could be excess fluorine or chloride from tap water. The solution is explained in the section FAQs part below.
Pest and Plant Disease Management
One of the main reasons that plants are more vulnerable to pests and require regular inspection regularly is the necessity of maintaining them in moist and warm conditions and possibly misting them frequently. Examine the stems and undersides of the plants to see if there are signs of pests.
Calathea Medallions are susceptible to a variety of natural bugs. They are particularly susceptible to spider mites. These can cause the leaves to dim and take on a washed-out brown appearance, reducing the typically vibrant, variegated contrast.
Calathea also isn’t immune to other insects, like mealybugs, aphids whiteflies, thrips as well as scale insects.
Fungus gnats may be a cause of trouble if found beneath the surface of the soil on which the plant is planted. If you notice a sign of this then stop watering the plant until the top 1 or two inches are dry out.
Although home remedies like dishwashing soap or alcohol can work against insects, they could also cause burns to the leaves.
Select from the various options available in the marketplace, including the horticultural oils, pyrethrins and the neem oil like this one from Amazon organic, low-toxic insecticidal products and sprays.
Utilizing these in the correct quantities as per the directions of manufacturers is crucial to ensure the health of the plant.
Other natural solutions may be available for Calathea Medallions in outdoor areas. For instance, the problem of aphids in outdoor areas can be controlled effectively by introducing ladybugs to the areas in which the beds of plants are located.
A Common Calathea Medallion Disease
A variety of popular Medallion ailments can be caused by fungal outbreaks caused by humidity and watering. The presence of white mold may be a sign of damage. In this situation, you should scrape the mold, and don’t water until that top layer of soil has dried and the fungus has died down.
Other Maintenance Tips
Other care is required when cultivating the Calathea Medallion plant in the indoor environment The following are some of them:
- Don’t let the temperature drop lower than 55 degrees for any long period. The plant will eventually die.
- Don’t place the plant in a place that is prone to cold drafts.
- Although the plant requires bright light for full bloom, the variegated and bright direct sunlight is not recommended. Also, a time of darkness is vital for the health of plants. Ideally, you should have half a day of sunlight with the remaining half being dark being the best solution.
- Medallion plants don’t require regular pruning, however, you should be aware of dying leaves, yellowed or brown parts or obvious signs of rot or illness. If you notice any of these, employ sterilized tools, such as scissors, sharp knives or shears to rid of the components.
- Examine the undersides of leaves and stems for evidence of pests at regular intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Owners of Calathea Medallions typically inquire about variations of the following questions. Solutions and solutions are available below.
What’s the reason Calathea Medallion is sometimes called Prayer Plants?
The tendency of leaves to fold slightly in the evenings leads to confusion.
Actual Praying Plants are a type of plant called Maranta leuconeura. They are a close relative of the Calathea Medallion, but distinctly different in that their leaves are folded up from the stem in the evening, imitating an eloquent hand of one when they are in prayer.
Calathea Medallion leaves may tend to curl slightly, however, an obvious folding of the edges towards the central vein could indicate something amiss with the surroundings and the plants. The most frequent theme is that in both instances the leaves are folded to preserve water.
Why are my plant leaves changing colour?
It’s usually the result of overwatering. If you notice this, stop watering until the top layer of the soil is dry.
But, it could also be caused by plants suffering from apprehension or drowning (such as a plant that is in an extremely cold breeze or a pest infestation).
My plant is showing burns on the edges and tips, with yellowish hues around the edges. What should I do?
As mentioned above This condition can result from excess fluoride or chlorine in the water from the tap that is being used on the plant. There are a variety of steps you can take to remedy the issue.
Then, you need to draw the water that you will use in advance and then leave it for a night – in this way, toxic chemicals will begin to evaporate.
Then, you should remove decaying leaves, or make use of pruners or shears to cut off any pieces that don’t look healthy. Also, you can employ a damp cloth to wipe the leaves now and then.
My Medallion plant has brown spots. What can I do?
Brown spots are typically caused by insect infestations or dry and dry air. This can be an underlying cause of discomfort as explained in the previous paragraph.
If you notice dryness spray the plant with water appropriately. Examine insect infestations and treat the problem with organic sprays in the manner described.
My Medallion plant has brown edges. What can I do?
Brown edges result from the humidity and humidity your plant is exposed to.
It’s probably drying out, which is due to low humidity, cold drafts, or the chemicals in tap water. Drying out can be corrected with misting or watering.
It is also possible to relocate your plant into a more comfortable place if needed. As previously mentioned allow the tap water to sit overnight before spraying it with water or misting it.
What is the reason why the leaves of my Medallion plant becoming brown? What can I do?
The leaf’s colour changing completely may be a sign of an infection caused by thrips. Be sure to look for tiny black bugs crawling under the stem or the leaf. If you see them, apply an organic pesticide for confirmation.
When should I fertilize my garden?
Calathea Medallion Calathea Medallion needs to be fertilized at least once every four weeks during the period from spring through late summer.
Fertilization must be stopped or decreased in the winter months.
Fertilization should not be continued for a couple of weeks after the plant is eliminated.
I might have used overdosed on fertilizer due to a mistake. What should I do?
Certain signs of overfertilization are described above. If you believe you’ve overfertilized, there are several simple ways to treat it.
The soil should be drained and flushed under running water will work. If it is not you can repot the plant.
The plant I have is a Medallion plant that is falling and is losing leaves. What can I do?
A drooping or browning appearance and curled leaves that begin to shed are clear indications your plant has been in trouble. If there isn’t any new growth or leaves this will confirm the diagnosis.
It is imperative to act quickly. Check for pest problems, then regulate the schedule of watering and then move the plant to a warmer area with adequate lighting.
If the soil is damp or soggy it might not be enough to scrape the top layer of soil off. Repotting your plant could be the only option to keep your plant alive.
Looking for other articles on our plant guides, then check this out
Why is My Zebra Plant Leaves Turning Brown?
