Care schedule
- Watering
- When the top few inches of soil are dry — not on a calendar Source: University of Minnesota Extension — Watering houseplants
- Feeding
- Spring and summer only, as often as the label says (every 2 weeks to every 3–4 months); none in winter Source: Iowa State University Extension — How often should I fertilize houseplants?
- Light
- Bright but indirect light Source: Royal Horticultural Society
- Frost
- Sensitive — protect or bring inside below about 34°F · typical
Each line links to its published source. Your pot, light, season and climate matter more than the calendar.
Care tips
- Keep the soil evenly moist, not soggy.
- Likes humidity — a pebble tray nearby helps.
- Curling leaves can mean dry air or thirst.
In GoodKeap
Save your calathea to get these reminders in Upkeap, log each watering and feeding, add progress photos.
From university extension guides
Each line links to the published guidance it came from.
Light
Bright but indirect light
Calatheas thrive in bright but indirect light, as direct summer sunlight can scorch their decorative leaves.
Source: Royal Horticultural SocietyChecked Oct 2026
Watering
When the top few inches of soil are dry — not on a calendar
Feel the soil or lift the pot; a light pot is dry. Overwatering causes root rot and yellow leaves.
Source: University of Minnesota Extension — Watering houseplantsChecked Oct 2026
Feeding
Spring and summer only, as often as the label says (every 2 weeks to every 3–4 months); none in winter
Use half or quarter strength if it's a general outdoor fertilizer.
Source: Iowa State University Extension — How often should I fertilize houseplants?Checked Oct 2026