Exotic Prayer Plant
The Exotic Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura) is a beautiful houseplant with unique foliage featuring dark green hues and unique light-and-dark-green veins. The maranta leuconeura’s striking leaves open up during the day and close at night, giving it the nickname prayer plant. This plant also produces white or purple flowers during the summer months. While a relatively simple plant to take care of, proper maintenance is important to keep the exotic prayer plant alive and healthy.
Exotic prayer plants require regular watering to stay hydrated, but be careful not to over-water. It prefers moist soil, but it will rot if its roots are constantly wet. It is critical to water when the soil is dry to the touch. Too much or too little water can cause the leaves to turn yellow, so it is important to water only when needed. Additionally, it is best to water early in the morning so the leaves will have time to dry before night time.
The exotic prayer plant loves bright, indirect sunlight—it loves the sun, but the sun should not be shining directly on it. As a result, it is best to keep this plant near to a window with a light curtain. If the leaves become too yellow, the plant likely is not getting enough light. Conversely, if it's not getting enough shade, the plant can become scorched. The temperature should also be kept between 65-80F for optimal growth.
The temperature should be kept between 65-80F and humidity should be kept at 50-60%. Too low of humidity can cause the leaves to become dry and crispy, and too high of humidity can cause too much moisture and too much water can cause root rot.
Exotic Prayer plants prefer high humidity levels, between 50-60%. It is recommended to mist the leaves of the plant occasionally, or keep it in the kitchen or bathroom to benefit from higher humidity levels. Additionally, a humidifier or a pebble tray with water can help maintain the right level of moisture in the air.
The optimal soil for the exotic prayer plant should be high in organic matter and loose. To achieve this, a combination of two parts potting soil and one part perlite or sand is best. Additionally, the soil should be well-draining, as the plant is prone to root rot.
Exotic prayer plants should be fertilized only during the growing season. The best fertilizer to use should be a low-nitrogen, water-soluble fertilizer. Use at half-strength every two weeks from spring to fall. During colder months, it is best not to fertilize, as the plant will not be taking in the nutrients.
Exotic Prayer plants can be prone to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. The best way to prevent these bugs from infesting the plant is to regularly check the leaves and stems for signs of damage. If pests are found, the plant can be treated with insecticidal soap or purchased pesticide. Additionally, make sure to remove any dead leaves and clean the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust.
Exotic prayer plants should be repotted every two years. When it is time to repot, the soil should be replaced and the roots carefully inspected, trimmed, and discarded if found to be damaged. When repotting, it is always best to select a pot with plenty of drainage holes.
Pruning is not necessary for the exotic prayer plant, but dead leaves can be removed. Trimming off any damaged leaves will help the plant focus its energy reserves on healthy growth.
Mulching is recommended for this plant, particularly in summer months when temperatures rise. Mulching helps the soil retain moisture and provide an extra layer of insulation to the roots. The mulch should be organic material such as shredded bark or peat moss.
Exotic prayer plants can be propagated through stem cuttings. To do this, the plant should be cut just below a node and placed in a cup of water. Once rooted, the plant can be transplanted into soil. It is best to wait until warmer weather, as this plant prefers warm temperatures while propagating.
The exotic prayer plant does not require support, but a small stake can be used to keep the leaves upright.
Exotic prayer plants do not need a rest period. This plant does not run on a seasonal cycle and instead is impacted by its environment. As long as the environmental needs are met, the tropical plant should remain in a continual state of growth.
The exotic prayer plant is not toxic to cats and dogs, and in fact may be beneficial for pet health since it purifies the air. It is important to keep the plant out of reach of cats and dogs as the sap can be an irritant to sensitive skin.
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