Maranta

Marantas need to be watered deeply but moderately. During the summer months, allow the top of the soil to dry out between waterings, while in the winter months, give plants less water since growth and activity are minimal. The soil should be evenly moist yet not soggy, which can lead to root rot as a result of prolonged and inadequate drainage. The main aim here is to ensure the roots are not sitting in wet soil as this can cause rotting and the eventual death of the plant.

Maranta plants prefer medium to bright indirect light, but can tolerate low indoor lighting. Due to the fact that these houseplants originate from the tropics, they do well in warm weather with direct sunshine but require protection during the hotter months of the year, making sure the leaves don’t get scorched. However, be sure to never place your Maranta plant in an overly sunny, hot spot as the heat can lead to sunburned foliage. Maranta can also tolerate fluorescent lights, making it the ideal plant for cubicles with extra lighting.

Marantas thrive in temperatures ranging from min 65°F (18°C) and max 90°F (32°C) in the day time and min 50°F (10°C) and max 75°F (24°C) during the night. Ensure the temperature doesn't abruptly drop as this can lead to stunted growth and drying of the plant.

Maranta plants will flourish in high humidity up to 80%. If the humidity level is below 40%, keep an eye on the foliage as it may become dry and crispy. To increase humidity levels, mist the leaves regularly or place the pot on a tray filled with moist pebbles and water.

Maranta prefers a soil with even moisture but not overly wet. It is best to use a lightweight mix that can retain a small amount of moisture, but should also be able to drain accordingly. When repotting, mix two parts of peat and one part each of perlite, vermiculite, small gravel, and compost. It is also important to make sure the soil's pH is between 6 and 7 for ideal growth and absorption of nutrients.

Marantas require regular fertilizing. Use any liquid houseplant fertilizer during the active growth period to ensure the Marantas are properly nourished. During the off-season, that is, summer and spring, provide the plants with extra doses of liquid fertilizer once in two weeks. Make sure to dilute the fertilizer with water to half of its strength before applying.

Marantas are vulnerable to a variety of pests, the most common being mealybugs, aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Mealybugs are the most sneaky of all. They are hidden in the leaf axels and the base of the stems, and they feed on the sap of the plant. Aphids in Maranta plants also present themselves in the form of little clusters of white spots. Spider mites will leave webbing and spots, while thrips will be seen as black streaks. To get rid of these pests, give the plant a proper shower once a month, and rub off any infested parts by hand when the shower is over. You can also use neem oil or insecticidal soap to help get rid of these pests.

Maranta does best when slightly rootbound, however, if plants have grown too large for their current pots, regular repotting every 3-4 years is necessary to prevent stunting. Repotting should take place spring or the start of the summer. When ready to repot, use a container with well-draining materials such as potting mix, compost, perlite, or sand. If your Maranta has become rootbound, remove the pot and tease the roots apart carefully and repot in the desired container.

Marantas are known to be low maintenance plants, and need only to be pruned to remove any old, dead, or unsightly foliage. Pruning also helps to maintain an optimal shape as well as prevent the spread of disease and pests. It is important to start pruning from the base, moving up the stems systematically. Pruning can be done in spring or early summer and, to optimize growth, use a pair of sharp, sterile scissors or small pruning shears to maintain an attractive shape.

Mulching is not necessary for Maranta, however, if desired, apply a thin layer of pine bark or any other organically based material for extra moisture around the plant's stem. For tropical environment gardens try using organic material such as leaves or coconut fibers, which break down into the soil and provide nutrition.

Maranta can be propagated by division, meaning the rhizomes are divided and then potted. Begin by cutting the clay pot from the top and gradually work the plant out. For small plants, separate the rhizomes with a clean and sharp knife. With bigger plants, use a clean and sharp spade for the job. When complete, gently remove them from the pot. After division, dip the root parts in a rooting hormone and repot into separate containers with fresh potting soil. Keep the potting soil moist and mist the leaves regularly until established.

Since Maranta reach an average height of 12”-24” (30- 60 cm), they should be provided with a moss stick, bamboo stick, or a trellis for support. This helps to remove the strain from stems and leaves, promoting better growth.

Maranta requires no rest period, and should rather be kept in a growth period for optimal foliage growth. The busiest period is during summer and spring, when all varieties of Marantas should experience moderate to high levels of growth.

Maranta is non-toxic for both cats and dogs, so your four-legged friends can enjoy the beauty of this plant without any worries