How To Save A Sunburnt Calathea

Have you ever noticed your Calathea looking a bit crispy around the edges, like it spent too much time basking in the sun? Calatheas are known for their striking foliage and vibrant patterns, but they're not big fans of direct sunlight. If your plant is showing signs of sunburn, don't worry! It's a common issue and totally fixable with a bit of care and attention.

In this blog post, we'll explore practical ways to nurse your sunburnt Calathea back to health. From identifying the signs of sun damage to adjusting its environment and care routine, we'll cover everything you need to know to get those leaves looking lush again. Let’s get started!

Identifying Sunburn in Calathea

First things first, how can you tell if your Calathea is sunburnt? Unlike humans, plants don't turn a shade of lobster red. Instead, they show symptoms that are easy to spot once you know what to look for. Let’s break it down:

• Leaf Discoloration: The most obvious sign is discoloration. You'll notice brown or yellow patches on the leaves, especially on the edges and tips. These areas may feel dry or crispy to the touch.
• Faded Patterns: Calatheas are admired for their vibrant patterns. Sunburn can cause these patterns to fade, making the leaves look dull and less vibrant.
• Drooping Leaves: If your plant is sunburnt, it might also appear droopy or wilted, even if the soil is adequately moist.

Interestingly enough, while direct sunlight can harm a Calathea, it doesn't mean the plant can't handle light altogether. It's all about finding that sweet spot where your plant gets enough light without getting scorched.

Relocating Your Calathea

Once you've identified sunburn, it's time to assess your plant's current location. Calatheas thrive in environments that mimic their natural habitat — think tropical, with filtered light and high humidity. So, what’s the best way to achieve this indoors?

Here's a step-by-step guide to finding the perfect spot:

• Indirect Light: Move your Calathea to a spot where it receives bright, indirect light. North or east-facing windows are ideal, as they provide gentle morning light that’s less intense.
• Distance from Windows: If your only option is a south or west-facing window, consider placing your plant a few feet away to prevent direct sun exposure.
• Use Sheer Curtains: Another option is to use sheer curtains to diffuse the light, creating a soft, filtered effect that your Calathea will love.

Remember, every home is different, so it might take some trial and error to find the perfect spot. Your plant will thank you by bouncing back with vibrant, healthy leaves.

Adjusting Watering Practices

Watering plays a crucial role in helping your sunburnt Calathea recover. These plants are a bit particular about their moisture levels, so it's important to strike a balance. Over-watering can lead to root rot, while under-watering can exacerbate sunburn symptoms.

Here’s how you can fine-tune your watering routine:

• Check the Soil: Before watering, check the top inch of soil. If it's dry, it's time to water. If it's still damp, hold off.
• Use Distilled Water: Calatheas are sensitive to chemicals in tap water, like chlorine and fluoride. Using distilled or rainwater is a good idea to prevent leaf damage.
• Consistent Schedule: Try to water your Calathea consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. A regular schedule helps the plant adjust and recover more effectively.

Interestingly, Calatheas also appreciate a bit of humidity, which we’ll cover next. But for now, keep an eye on your watering habits, and your plant will start to show signs of recovery.

Boosting Humidity Levels

Calatheas are native to tropical areas, where humidity levels are naturally high. That’s why these plants thrive in homes with higher humidity levels. If your Calathea is sunburnt, boosting humidity can help it bounce back more quickly.

Here are some easy ways to increase humidity:

• Use a Humidifier: Investing in a small humidifier is one of the simplest ways to maintain consistent humidity levels around your plants.
• Group Plants Together: Place your Calathea near other plants. This creates a micro-climate of humidity as plants naturally release moisture through transpiration.
• Misting: Lightly misting the leaves can provide a temporary humidity boost. Just make sure not to overdo it, as excessive moisture can lead to fungal issues.

While it's hard to say for sure, many plant lovers find their plants are happier and healthier with a bit of extra humidity, especially during the dry winter months.

Pruning Damaged Leaves

After adjusting the environment and care routine, it's time to give your sunburnt Calathea a little makeover. Pruning is an effective way to remove damaged leaves and encourage new growth. But how do you do it without harming your plant?

Follow these simple steps:

• Use Clean Tools: Always use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to prevent spreading disease.
• Cut at the Base: Remove damaged leaves by cutting them at the base, near the soil line. This allows the plant to focus its energy on healthy growth.
• Be Selective: Only remove leaves that are more than 50% damaged. A few brown tips won't harm the plant, and you can trim just the brown edges if needed.

By removing the unsightly, damaged leaves, you'll not only improve the plant's appearance but also encourage it to produce fresh, healthy foliage.

Fertilizing for Recovery

While your Calathea is recovering from sunburn, a little nutritional boost can go a long way. Fertilizing helps replenish nutrients and supports healthy new growth. But be careful not to overdo it, as too much fertilizer can harm the plant.

Consider these guidelines when fertilizing:

• Use a Balanced Fertilizer: Choose a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
• Frequency: Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce frequency in the fall and winter.
• Follow Instructions: Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and dilute it to half-strength to avoid over-fertilizing.

Remember, fertilizing is just one piece of the puzzle. Combined with proper lighting, watering, and humidity, your Calathea will have everything it needs to thrive again.

Monitoring for Pests and Diseases

As your Calathea recovers, keep an eye out for pests and diseases that can further stress the plant. Common culprits include spider mites, mealybugs, and fungal infections, which can take advantage of weakened plants.

Here's how to keep pests at bay:

• Regular Inspections: Check your plant regularly for signs of pests, such as webbing, tiny insects, or a sticky residue on leaves.
• Natural Remedies: Use natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat pest infestations. These options are gentle on plants but effective against pests.
• Avoid Overwatering: Fungal diseases often result from excessive moisture. Ensure your plant's soil drains well and avoid letting it sit in water.

By staying vigilant and addressing issues early, you can keep your Calathea healthy and free from pests and diseases.

Maintaining a Consistent Environment

Once your Calathea is on the mend, maintaining a consistent environment is crucial for its long-term health and happiness. These plants thrive when their conditions are stable, so aim to provide a routine that meets their needs.

Here are some tips to keep your plant happy:

• Stable Temperature: Keep your Calathea in a spot where temperatures remain between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Avoid placing it near drafts, radiators, or air conditioners.
• Consistent Lighting: Ensure your plant receives the right amount of indirect light throughout the day. Adjust its location if you notice any changes in lighting conditions.
• Regular Care Routine: Stick to a regular watering and fertilizing schedule, and monitor humidity levels to ensure your plant remains comfortable.

While your Calathea may require some extra attention at first, maintaining a consistent environment will help it thrive and prevent future sunburn issues.

Embracing the Learning Process

Caring for a sunburnt Calathea can be a valuable learning experience for any plant parent. It teaches us to be observant, patient, and adaptable in our approach to plant care. And while every plant is different, the principles of light, water, and humidity apply to many houseplants.

Here are some takeaways from your Calathea journey:

• Observe and Adapt: Pay attention to your plant's needs and be willing to adjust its care routine as needed.
• Be Patient: Recovery takes time, so be patient and give your plant the space it needs to heal.
• Learn and Grow: Use this experience to improve your plant care skills and apply what you've learned to other plants in your collection.

Every plant journey is unique, and the lessons you learn along the way are just as important as the end result. So, enjoy the process and celebrate each small victory as your Calathea recovers and thrives.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a sunburnt Calathea back to health is a rewarding endeavor that teaches us the importance of attentive care and environmental awareness. By following the steps outlined above, you can help your Calathea recover and thrive once again.

At Cafe Planta, we're passionate about helping you care for your plants. Whether you're an experienced plant parent or just starting out, we offer a wide range of houseplants and accessories to suit your needs. If you have any questions, feel free to email us or reach out on Instagram. Let's grow together and create beautiful, thriving plant collections in our homes!