Calathea medallion

Calathea medallion plants prefer a consistently moist soil. Always check the Moisture Meter before watering, and use lukewarm filtered water. Make sure water can freely drain away from the plant's roots, otherwise this will lead to root rot. In the winter months, you should reduce water slightly, but do not completely stop as the plant will still need hydration. During this time, only water your Calathea when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Calathea Medallion plants thrive in indirect, bright light, but not too near the window where it could be exposed to direct sunlight. Place your plant away from the window or near it with sheer curtains that diffuse the light. Exposing your Calathea to too much direct light will cause its vibrant, rich foliage colors to fade.

Calatheas prefer temperatures between 18-24ºC (64-75ºF). They can also survive in temperatures of 10-18ºC (50-64ºF), although the growth of the plant may be slowed down. It is important to maintain an even temperature throughout the year and to avoid any extreme temperatures.

Calathea medallion plants require high humidity (60% and above). If possible, use a humidifier to guarantee the desired level of humidity and protect the plant against dry air. In addition, misting your houseplant will also help to keep its foliage bright, fresh and healthy.

Calathea medallion prefers slightly acidic soil with good drainage. Its best to use a peat, moss, and vermiculite mixture that is loamy and slightly chalky. This soil will help to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged.

Calathea medallion should be fertilized with a balanced liquid fertilizer such as 20-20-20, once every two months during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize during the rest season (winter). During this time, you should reduce the amount of water the plant receives as well as the amount of light it gets.

Calathea Medallion plants are susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. Mealybugs are sap-sucking insects that can be found under the leaves or around the stem and will produce a white, cottony material. Spider mites can cause leaf yellowing and stippling, and are hard to detect since they are can live between the veins on the underside of the leaves. Scale insects look like small brownish bumps on stems and undersides of leaves. Get rid of pests by gently wiping the leaves of your Calathea with a damp cloth. To deter insects, you might consider using neem oil, which is a natural insecticide and repellent.

Calathea medallion should be repotted every 1-2 years in the spring. Before repotting, make sure to loosen the roots of the plant since it may become root-bound if it has been growing in the same pot for too long. Calatheas prefer shallow pots, with only a few inches of soil below the plant. Repotting will also help to keep the plant in good condition.

Calathea medallion plants don't need much pruning yet regular pinching is recommended if the plant has become overgrown. When pruning your Calathea, use clean, sharp scissors and do not cut more than one-third of the plant. Pinch the plant back so that it maintains a bushy, well-groomed shape.

Mulching your Calathea will help to keep the soil moist and retain a humid atmosphere in the pot. Organic mulches such as bark chips, coconut husks and pieces of wood are the best choice for Calathea.

Calathea medallion can be propagated from stem cuttings, root division, or leaf cuttings. Remove a stem cutting, about 4 inches long, and discard the lower leaves. Place the stem cutting in a glass of water and wait for roots to develop. Once roots have developed, carefully remove the stem cutting from the water and pot it in a soil mixture. Place it in indirect light for a few weeks and then move to bright indirect light.

Your Calathea may need support, especially if the plant becomes top-heavy or when flowering. You can use moss poles to keep the plant stable and strong. This will also help to maintain the bushy form of your Calathea.

Calathea medallion doesn't require a rest period. However, it is a good idea to reduce the frequency of watering in the winter months while decreasing the amount of light it receives to slow down the growth.

Calathea medallion is not toxic to cats and dogs, making it a safe houseplant for those with curious pets.