Feathered Maiden

Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) should be kept moist but not soggy, and should only be watered when the soil is lightly dry to the touch. Over-watering will cause the leaves to become yellow and/or brown. It is important to note that this plant does not like wet feet, so it is not a good idea to let the soil remain wet or stand in water. It is also a good idea to use filtered or rain water when watering this plant, as tap water can contain dangerous chemicals that may cause leaf damage.

Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) prefers a semi-light to shade position, somewhere between a bright shady spot and a bright spot with no direct sunlight. Ideally, the plant should be placed in an east facing window, but it must be kept out of direct sunlight. Too much direct sun will cause the leaves to scorch and turn brown, and will stunt the growth of the plant. A west facing window can also work, as long as direct sun is prevented from hitting the leaves during the hottest part of the day.

The recommended temperature range for Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) is 60-75 ℉ (15-24℃). It is important to not let it get too cold, or the plant may suffer from chill-burn. If possible, try to make sure it stays above 60 ℉ (15℃). It is also important to try to keep the temperature consistent, as dramatic temperature dips can cause shock to the plant.

Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) prefers higher humidity levels, ideally around 60-70%. To keep your Calathea’s humidity levels up, try misting it regularly, preferably with distilled water. You can place a tray of water and pebbles beneath the pot, but make sure the pot is not sitting in water. You can also invest in a humidifier to keep the air more hydrated in your home.

The best soil for Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) is a well-draining potting mix with some added organic matter. A good base mix could be 2 parts peat moss, 2 parts vermiculite, 2 parts perlite, and 1 part compost. To increase drainage, you can also add pumice, sand, or bark.

Fertilization of Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) should be done at the beginning of the growing season. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer or an all-purpose liquid fertilizer can be used. Avoid fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or become brown. The fertilizer should be applied according to the instructions on the label, and make sure not to over-fertilize as this can burn the roots of the plant.

Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) are known to be prone to pests. The most common pests are fungus gnats, mealybugs, scale insects and spider mites. Fungus gnats can be eliminated with sticky traps or by watering only when the top of the soil is dry. Mealybugs can be controlled by gently wiping them away with a cotton swab soaked in isopropyl alcohol. Scales can be treated with insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils. Spider mites can be controlled with suitable insecticides designed for indoor plants. If you are not sure how to treat your plant, it is best to consult a professional.

Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) should typically be repotted every 1-2 years, or when the roots become crowded. It is best to do repotting during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Make sure you use a well-draining pot and soil, and that the new pot is slightly larger than the old one. Repotting will help the plant grow and stay healthy.

Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) may be pruned occasionally to maintain shape and size. It is best to prune when the plant is actively growing, and pruning should be done with clean, sharp shears. Pruning will help the plant look more symmetrical and encourage new growth. If you wish to propagate from this plant, you can take stem cuttings and either root in soil or in water before replanting into a pot.

Mulching is not necessary for Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana), as it prefers the natural moisture from the soil. Too much mulch can cause the soil to become waterlogged, leading to root rot.

Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a stem cutting from the mother plant during the growing season, and then either root the cutting in soil or in a cup of water. Make sure the water is changed regularly and the cutting has ample light. When the root system has become established, replant the cutting into a pot. Keep the soil moist until the plant is established.

When planting the Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana), a moss stake or moss pole may be necessary for support, as the stems can become weak from the weight of the plant's foliage. Make sure the stake is firmly in the soil to provide stability while the plant is growing and maturing.

Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) does not require a specific rest period, but growth may slow or even stop during the winter season due to shorter days and reduced light. To keep the plant healthy, it is important to move it away from any cold drafts or heat sources, such as radiators or air conditioning vents.

Feathered Maiden (Calathea makoyana) does not appear to be toxic to cats or dogs, according to the ASPCA website, but the leaves may cause a skin reaction if ingested. It is best to keep pets away from the plant to prevent any contact or really harm.