Calathea Makoyana Soil

Calathea Makoyana prefers to be potted in well draining soil with a high-water retention rate. An excellent growing medium is a 2:1 ratio of peat moss to perlite or sand. However, commercial African violet soil will treat this plant quite nicely. Additional incorporations of coco coir and pine bark will aid in increasing drainage. Incorporating organic materials such as compost will encourage lush foliar growth but be careful to keep incorporations of compost to under 10%, as the excess organic matter will make drainage more difficult.

Calathea Makoyana Fertilizer

This plant prefers to be fertilized twice monthly during the growing season from April to October with a high Nitrogen fertilizer indicated for houseplants. Ensure that you follow all label instructions. Too much fertilizer may cause chemical burn.

Calathea Makoyana Watering

For proper peacock plant care, it is essential to water your plant correctly. The soil needs to remain moist but not waterlogged. If the tubers of this plant sit in water, it will invariably lead to root rot. A watering schedule that you can abide by is suggested for proper care of the peacock plant. Depending on growing conditions, watering will need to be done about 1-2 times weekly. Every few days, stick your finger inside the pot and add water after the top inch has become dry. This plant is sensitive to fluoride in tap water. Therefore, rainwater or distilled water is recommended.

Calathea Makoyana Light Requirements

Being a tropical perennial accustomed to dappled light, your peacock plant will enjoy similar conditions inside the home—a bright spot with bright indirect light, such as from the east or north-facing window. However, keep in mind that this plant will suffer from too much direct sunlight. Calathea Makoyana is an understory plant in its native environment and does not tolerate direct light well.

Calathea Makoyana Temperature & Humidity

Being a somewhat finicky plant, Calathea Makoyana requires consistent temperatures to grow well. Their ideal temperatures are between 65 to 85F. It is pertinent never to let the plant reach temperatures below 60F, as this may cause permanent damage. Peacock plants do not like to be placed near cold drafts, heaters, air conditioners, or cold windows. Calathea Makoyana requires high humidity levels to be happy. A humidity level of 60% or higher should be maintained in the home. To meet the peacock plant’s humidity requirements, a humidifier, pebble tray, or being grown in a terrarium or bathroom is suggested. This plant will tolerate misting of the leaves.

Repotting Calathea Makoyana

Repotting of this peacock plant should be done in either spring or fall. Repotting should be done when the pot is visibly much too small for your plant, or every two years, whichever comes first. Select a pot that is one size larger than the previous one and be sure it has drainage holes. Place the root ball into the new container, refresh with fresh soil, tamp lightly, water, and place in indirect light.