Calathea Peacock

The Peacock Calathea, known for its striking and intricate foliage, is a beautiful and decorative houseplant. It requires specific care to thrive but rewards with its vibrant leaves. Here’s a detailed care guide for the Peacock Calathea:

### Description:
- **Scientific Name**: Calathea makoyana
- **Common Name**: Peacock Calathea, Cathedral Windows
- **Family**: Marantaceae
- **Origin**: Native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil.

### Care Instructions:

#### Light:
- **Indirect Light**: Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause the vibrant patterns to fade.
- **Low Light Tolerance**: Can tolerate lower light conditions but may grow more slowly and produce less vivid foliage.

#### Watering:
- **Consistent Moisture**: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- **Water Quality**: Use distilled or filtered water, as Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals like chlorine and fluoride in tap water.

#### Humidity:
- **High Humidity**: Requires high humidity levels, ideally around 60% or higher. Use a humidifier, place the plant on a pebble tray with water, or mist regularly to maintain humidity.
- **Leaf Tips**: Brown leaf tips often indicate low humidity.

#### Soil:
- **Well-Draining Soil**: Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat, perlite, and potting soil. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.

#### Temperature:
- **Warm Temperatures**: Thrives in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 60°F (15°C).

#### Feeding:
- **Regular Fertilization**: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months when growth slows.

#### Potting and Repotting:
- **Repotting**: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant outgrows its pot. Use fresh potting mix and ensure the new pot has good drainage.

#### Pruning:
- **Minimal Pruning**: Remove yellowing or dead leaves to maintain the plant’s health and appearance. Pruning can also encourage new growth.

#### Pests and Problems:
- **Common Pests**: Watch for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- **Leaf Issues**: Browning or curling leaves can indicate underwatering, low humidity, or over-fertilization.

#### Propagation:
- **Division**: The best method of propagation is by division. During repotting, carefully separate the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system, and plant them individually.

### Special Tips:
- **Consistent Care**: Calathea makoyana is sensitive to changes in its environment. Consistent watering, humidity, and temperature are crucial for its health.
- **Leaf Movement**: Calathea leaves often move in response to the light cycle, closing at night and opening during the day. This is a normal characteristic known as nyctinasty.
- **Cleaning Leaves**: Regularly clean the leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and help the plant absorb light more effectively.

By following these care instructions, your Peacock Calathea should thrive, adding a touch of elegance and vibrant color to your indoor space.