The Calathea Makoyana also reffered to as the Peacock plant is an attractive and widely used indoor plant cherished for its vibrant design and aesthetic status. It belongs to the group Marantaceae and is indigenous to the region of Brazil; they are specifically found growing under the canopies of the rainforest. This plant not only looks beautiful but also can cleanse the air it circulates, thus making it an indoor necessity. Here, I will explain the features of growing Calathea Makoyana, the light it needs, how to take care of it, and how to reproduce it properly, as well as the problems that can arise when caring for this plant, and, finally, the advantages of making Calathea Makoyana a part of your interior.
Characteristics of Calathea Makoyana
Appearance:
Calathea Makoyana is characterized by large, oval-shaped leaves and the most attractive feature is the design of the leaves reminiscent of peacock feathers. The leaves are pinnately compound with paler green basal color and dark green concentric bands that form a feather-like appearance from midvein. The lower surface of the leaves is also a darker purple which is also a good bonus for any plant with an Aloe-like appearance. The leaves develop length longer than 12nches in some species and therefore the leaves alone offer a prominent focus in any decorated room.
Growth Habit:
This is a perennial evergreen plant that can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) tall and wide while growing indoors. It reproduces by a vegetative process known as rhizome, enabling the plant to generate new sprouts and leaves. Like other plants in the prayer plant family, its leaves show nyctinastic movement, that is, the upward and downward motion during changes of light, making it living.
Flowers:
Although the accent is placed on the leaves of Calathea Makoyana, it can bloom small white or purple flowers which are rather small and inobservant. These blooms are not showy and do not form the major highlight of the foliage that surrounds the plant. The time when flowers are produced is usually within the growing season, particularly in late spring or early summer.
Care Requirements
In its management, Calathea Makoyana is treated like other tropical plants, and some practices applied include: Here are the critical care requirements:
Light:
Calathea Makoyana prefers medium to bright, indirect light. Strong sunshine can burn the leaves and turn the colors and the patterns on them smooth and the outer border becomes brown. Ideally, the plant should be placed adjacent to the east or north-facing window. One can supplement natural lighting with artificial lighting, such as fluorescent or LED grow lights, if they cannot get enough natural lighting.
Temperature:
Calathea Makoyana is a tropical plant and therefore, grows perfectly in an environment with high levels of heat and humidity. The best temperature is 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit or 18-24 degrees Celsius. It is heat sensitive and should be placed in a cool dry area away from flames, electric or gas heaters, air conditioners, and drafts.
Humidity:
The last environmental factor is humidity which is very important for the correct growth of Calathea Makoyana. This typically means that the humidity level should be set to 60% and above. Boost humidity by placing a humidifier close to the plant, using a tray with wet stones, and water, or combining the plant with other plants in the same area.
Watering:
The Calathea Makoyana plant thrives in soil with good moisture content, or humidity but does not accept a water-logged one. Hold your finger in the soil to check if it requires water: if the dry layer on the top is ready, then it is the right time to water the plant. If possible, water should be distilled or rainwater because tap water with a lot of minerals accentuates leaf spotting and discoloration. Make sure the pot has drainage holes through which excess water does not collect as this will cause root rot.
Soil:
Calathea Makoyana prefers well-draining soil that is comprised of peat and nothing else. Depending on the kind of plants, a combination of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark gives optimal moisture-holding capacity and aeration. Heavy soils should be shunned because these compact and provide lousy drainage for the build-up of water.
Fertilization:
Fertilize Calathea Makoyana with a balanced water-soluble feed every 4-6 weeks during the active growth phase which is the spring and summer. Reduce the concentration of the fertilizer to half the rate recommended on the package to avoid burning leaves through over-fertilization. Limit feeding during fall and winter when the plant is less active and has lower demands for nutrients.
Pruning:
Pruning is rarely needed for Calathea Makoyana but dead or wilted leaves should be trimmed to enhance the general appearance of the plant. To reduce the risk of transferring diseases, it is necessary to use clean and sharp scissors to cut off only the lowest leaves on the stem.
Propagation
The propagation of Calathea Makoyana is well done through division because new plants will resemble the parent plant.
Choose the Right Time:
It is advisable to propagate it during the growing season, especially when the plant is growing properly.
Prepare the Plant:
Carefully transplant the plant from the pot without causing harm to the root of the plant.
Divide the Plant:
Determine the places in the plant where it is natural to make a cross-section, often shown by the presence of leaves and roots. With another clean knife, it is advisable to gently apart these parts.
Repot the Divisions:
Repot each division in a separate pot using fresh potting soil. Make sure the roots are covered properly and then water them.
Provide Care:
Next, transplant the new plants into a warm, humid, and brightly lit area. Water your plants frequently at the initial stages of planting to conserve the moisture in the soil.
Common Issues and Solutions
Nonetheless, Calathea Makoyana is usually free from common disease issues although it may occasionally develop problems if its growing conditions are not well-measured.
1. Leaf Curling:
Under watering the plant, low humidity or exposure to cold draft currents are some common causes of the leaves to curl. Pay particular attention to watering frequency and keep the device in a humid environment. This means you need to move the plant to a location away from draughts or areas that are either too cold or hot.
2. Brown Leaf Edges:
When there are brown edges, it is an indication of low humidity or high mineral content in the water. Use distilled or rainwater to take care of the plants and try to make the environment more humid.
3. Yellowing Leaves:
Yellowing leaves usually indicate that the plant is overcrowded, overwatered, or suffers from a lack of nutrient inputs. Water the plant when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch, however, before watering it for the second time, ensure that the soil drains well. If needed, change the fertilization rates and frequencies of application in the fields.
4. Pest Infestations:
Pests that affect the plants include spider mites aphids, and mealy bugs. Monitor the plant for the presence of pests and control them by washing with soap and water or using neem oil. Another way of preventing it is by ensuring that the surrounding environment has high humidity because pests are not able to thrive in such conditions.
Benefits of Growing Calathea Makoyana
1. Aesthetic Appeal:
Calathea Makoyana with its detailed pattern on the leaves is the perfect plant to brighten up any room. Such a cool and constantly moving leaf naturally brings life and intrigue to homes and offices.
2. Air Purification:
Calathea Makoyana like any other houseplant helps in eliminating pollutants within the house atmosphere and releases oxygen as a byproduct. This makes it advantageous to incorporate circumstances where the air is unhealthy for breathing.
3. Low Allergen:
This type is safe for families with children and animals since it is reported to be non-toxic to both humans and pets. It is also low on allergens which is ideal for those with allergies.
4. Stress Reduction:
Thus, the presence of such specimens as Calathea Makoyana can also have specific impacts on the condition of the human mind. It has also been documented that indoor plants can minimize stress, boost productivity, and improve people’s moods.
Conclusion
Calathea Makoyana is one of the most enticing and interesting houseplants that will surely add charm to any room. When well maintained, it’s a beautiful addition that decoratively improves the physical appearance while at the same time purifying the air. Thus, it can be stated that even if you are a plant collector with many years of experience, the Peacock Plant is an ideal plant that can beautify the interior while supplying useful oxygen to the room. Aware of the need for its care and the possible problems, many Marcy’s Calathea lovers can enjoy its refinement for years.
