Calathea ornata is more common because of its scientific name, Pinstripe calathea. It is a tropical houseplant favored by many gardeners as they have the most elegant visual among types of calatheas. This plant is known for its broad dark green leaves with creamy white or pink thin stripes. Now, it's time for you to understand how to care for this indoor houseplant. I have been in the plant industry for a long time, and here are my best tips for calathea ornata plant care:
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Light
Calathea ornata likes medium to bright indirect light. I typically place them in a west-facing window. However, if your window faces north or east, it is also ideal! Just make sure that the light is gentle. A south-facing window can be too strong for them.
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Soil
I have tried numerous soils, but the best soil for Calathea ornata is a loose, well-draining potting mix that holds onto moisture. You can use a peat-based blend or make it by combining two parts of peat moss, orchid barks, perlite, and 1 part of organic compost.
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Water
Water your Calathea ornata consistently so the soil stays moist but not soggy. The Calathea ornata can handle some overwatering sometimes. However, overwatering may cause root rot and kill the plant. The best way to prevent them from overwatering is to make sure they get rid of the excess water.
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Temperature and Humidity
Calathea ornata is a tropical plant. Its ideal temperature is between 18 and 29 degrees Celsius. To keep your plant in optimal condition, place it away from areas with cold drafts. In that sense, don't place it near windows or doors that open regularly.
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Fertilizer
Houseplants must be regularly fertilized to stay healthy. It is recommended that Calathea ornata be fertilized during the growing season, which is spring or summer. I regularly fertilize my Calathea ornata once every 14 days during that season.
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Pruning and Trimming
Remember that printing and trimming your Calathea ornata only helps to maintain its shape. This act also encourages new growth by removing dead or drying foliage that drains the plant's energy. The best time to prune this plant is during the growing season, spring and summer.
Conclusion
Caring for calathea ornata is categorized as easy, and it is a good choice for beginners. All because Calathea ornata requires little effort to manage. They need only medium light and can withstand overwatering sometimes. So, are you ready to have this plant sit beautifully in your home?