Repotting Calathea: A Comprehensive Guide for Plant Parents

Oleh Johanna Bechtelar May 22, 2023 Post a Comment

Calatheas are beautiful tropical plants that bring vibrant colors and patterns to any home. However, like any other plant, they require proper care and maintenance to thrive. One of the essential aspects of caring for Calatheas is repotting them. Repotting not only helps your plant grow but also ensures its health by providing adequate space, nutrients, and drainage. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about repotting Calatheas.

Why Repot Your Calathea?

Repotting is an essential process that every plant parent should do, and Calatheas are no exception. Here are some reasons why repotting your Calathea is beneficial:

Improved Growth: Calatheas grow quickly, and they need enough space to spread their roots. Repotting provides more room for the roots to grow, which enhances the plant's growth rate.
Nutrient Boost: Over time, the soil in the pot can become depleted of nutrients, making it difficult for the plant to grow. Repotting allows you to add fresh soil and fertilizers, giving your plant a nutrient boost.
Prevent Root Bound: When a plant becomes root-bound, it means the roots have outgrown their container, and there isn't enough space to support the plant's growth. Repotting helps prevent root binding, which can eventually lead to stunted growth or even death.

When to Repot Your Calathea

Knowing when to repot your Calathea is as important as knowing how to do it. Here are some signs that indicate it's time to repot your Calathea:

Roots Growing Out of Drainage Holes: If you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes, it's a sign that your Calathea has outgrown its current pot.
Slow Growth: If your Calathea is not growing as fast as it used to, it could be a sign that the soil lacks nutrients or space. Repotting will rectify this problem.
Wilting Leaves: When your Calathea's leaves to wilt, it indicates that the roots are not getting enough water or nutrients. Repotting will give the plant a fresh supply of soil and nutrients.
Roots Growing Above Soil: If you see roots growing above the soil, it means that the plant has become root-bound and needs more space.

Choosing the Right Pot

Choosing the right pot is crucial when repotting your Calathea. The pot should be slightly larger than the current one to provide room for growth. Here are some tips to help you choose the right pot:

Size: The new pot should be one size larger than the current one to allow for proper growth.
Material: Clay pots are an excellent choice for Calatheas because they absorb excess moisture and release it slowly, providing a stable environment for the plant. However, plastic pots are better for retaining moisture, and they don't break easily.
Drainage Holes: Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom of the pot, which can cause root rot.

How to Repot Your Calathea

Repotting can be intimidating, but it's a straightforward process if you follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Pot

Clean the new pot thoroughly and let it dry.
Fill the pot with fresh, well-draining soil, leaving enough space at the top for the plant.

Step 2: Remove the Plant from the Old Pot

Water the plant a day before repotting to make it easier to remove from the old pot.
Gently remove the plant from the old pot and loosen the roots, being careful not to damage them.

Step 3: Repot the Plant

Place the plant in the new pot and fill it with soil until the soil level is just below the top of the pot.
Gently press the soil around the plant to ensure that it's firmly in place.

Step 4: Water the Plant

Water the plant thoroughly until water comes out of the drainage holes, ensuring that the soil is evenly moist.

Caring for Your Calathea After Repotting

After repotting your Calathea, it's essential to take care of it properly. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant after repotting:

Watering: Water your Calathea regularly, but don't overwater it. Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy.
Lighting: Calatheas thrive in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
Humidity: Calatheas love humidity, so mist your plant regularly or place a humidifier near it.
Fertilizing: Fertilize your Calathea every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.

Common Problems and Solutions

Even with proper care, Calatheas can still encounter problems. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:

Yellow Leaves: Yellow leaves could indicate overwatering, underwatering, or lack of humidity. Adjust your watering schedule and mist the plant more often.
Brown Edges: Brown edges on the leaves could indicate low humidity or too much direct sunlight. Move the plant away from direct sunlight and mist it more often.
Drooping Leaves: Drooping leaves could indicate underwatering or root rot. Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy and check for root rot.

Repotting your Calathea is an essential aspect of caring for your plant. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your plant has enough space, nutrients, and drainage to thrive. Remember to choose the right pot, follow the proper repotting process, and take care of your plant after repotting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How often should I repot my Calathea?

A: Calatheas should be repotted every 1-2 years or when the roots have outgrown their current pot.

Q2: Can I use regular soil to repot my Calathea?

A: No, it's best to use well-draining soil specifically formulated for tropical plants like Calatheas.

Q3: Should I prune my Calathea before repotting?

A: You can trim any dead or yellowing leaves, but it's not necessary to prune the plant before repotting.

Q4: Can I repot my Calathea anytime during the year?

A: It's best to repot your Calathea during the growing season (spring to summer) when it's actively growing.

Q5: How do I know if my Calathea needs repotting?

A: Signs that indicate it's time to repot your Calathea include roots growing out of the drainage holes, slow growth, wilting leaves, and roots growing above the soil.