Calathea Vittata Care Guide

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Calathea Vittata can be just as fussy as other plants in the Calathea family; you may find their leaves crisp, curl, yellow, droop and more, which can be pretty stressful. So we’ve put together a Calathea Vittata care guide to help you care for this beautiful but tricky little plant.

Light

Just like with any Calathea plant, the Calathea Vittata does not like direct sunlight. The rays from the sun can scorch their leaves causing burning and brown crsping. Instead opt for a spot where the plant is protected from the sun and where it can receive medium light. They can tolerate lower lighting conditions but be aware they are not known as low light houseplants and may need something a little brighter.

Watering

Calathea Vittata need to be watered regularly and not allowed to dry out between waterings. Simply stick your fingers in the top two inches of soil and as you feel is starting to dry give your plant a drink. You can also use a moisture meter like this one on Amazon to help you detect the level of water in the soil if you find it difficult to judge yourself. Sometimes tap water can be too strong for your plant so if you notice any leaf burning and your Calathea isn’t in direct sunlight then try using filtered water.

A common sign of overwatering is yellow leaves and a common sign of underwatering is the leaves curling in on themselves. If you notice either of these signs then adjust your watering schedule accordingly.

Humidity

Calathea Vittata will benefit from a medium to high humidity environment. They may be able to tolerate the natural humidity in your home but if the air is too dry then this plant will suffer. We would recommend using a humidifer or watered pebble tray to help your plant get some extra moisture.

Soil

A potting mixture that is available to retain moisture will be good for your Calathea Vittata. We find that using a regular potting mix with added peat moss and perlite keeps the soil moist yet aerated and create that jungley mixture that you’re looking for. It’s important that you pot your plant in a container with drainage holes.

Temperature

Calathea Vittata need to be kept in warmer temperatures and will do badly in colder conditions. Keep them away from droughts which means windows and doors and try to keep your home at a consistent temperature year round. Be aware that heating systems can cause the air to dry out so if you use heating in winter you might want to consider adjusting the humidity levels to compensate for this.

Propagation

Calathea Vittata can be propagated via root division rather than from a cutting. As your plant matures you will notice new shoots coming out of the soil and new segments of the plant will grow that seem separate from the mother plant. When they happens and the new shoots have grown to a substantial height then you can take the plant from the soil and separate the plant at the roots, being careful to break as few as possible. When you have redone this repot both the original plant and the new plant.

Fertilisation

Just like with many other things Calathea Vittata can be quite sensitive to fertiliser, so make sure you choose a weak diluted one and fertilise your plant after watering. You also only need to fertilise your Calathea during the growing season which means spring and summer.

Calathea Vittata FAQ

Now you’ve read the Calathea Vittata care guide, take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions to see if it can help you to care for your plant.

How do you care for Calathea Vittata?

In order to care for your plant you will need:

• Medium to bright indirect light
• Regular watering
• Weak fertiliser
• Filtered water
• Peat based soil
• Medium humidity
• Warm temperatures

Does Calathea Vittata need sunlight?

Although Calathea Vittata needs access to light, it is important that you don’t place your plant in direct sunlight as this can burn the leaves.

Can you overwater Calathea Vittata?

Yes you can overwater Calathea Vittata as you can overwater most plants. Although it is known for a plant that likes to be watered regularly and kept moist if the soil becomes water logged, you water your plant too often or there aren’t drainage holes, then you could easily be overwatering your plant which could result in yellowing leaves.

What is a good spot for a Calathea Vittata?

As they don’t like light that is too intense placing them near an east facing window is a good spot for them as they can receive lots of morning light but are protected from the harsher rays of the afternoon.

Are Calathea Vittata easy to find?

This plant is becoming much easier to come by as Calathea plants in general are becoming more popular. And the good news is that is a plant shop stocks Calathea plants, it’s likely that they have this variety as it is quite common among its species. If you struggle to find a shop that stocks it there are lots of online shops that do so depending on where you live you probably won’t have to pay huge shipping fees.

Why are my Calathea Vittata’s leaves curling?

Leaves curling on any Calathea plant can be a sign of underwatering or too much light. The leaves curl to protect themselves to try and conserve water so the first thing you need to do is check the soil, if it’s dry then this could be the culprit so water your plant immediately. If the soil is moist then check the light source. Maybe where you’ve placed your plant is too bright. If this is the case then try moving it away or protecting it from the sun with the foliage of other plants.