Why are the Leaves on my Network Calathea Turning Yellow?

Calatheas are a popular choice for plant lovers thanks to their stunning, patterned leaves and hardy nature. But let's face it, even the most dedicated plant parents can find themselves scratching their heads when those beautiful Calathea leaves start turning yellow. It's frustrating, right? You're not alone in this leafy conundrum.

In this blog post, we'll explore why your Network Calathea might be developing those unwelcome yellow leaves. From water woes to lighting mishaps, we'll cover a range of reasons that might be affecting your plant's health. By understanding these factors, you'll be better equipped to help your Calathea thrive once again.

Understanding the Basics of Calathea

Before we tackle the yellowing issue, it's helpful to understand a bit about Calatheas themselves. These plants hail from the tropical regions of South America, where they're accustomed to warm, humid environments. The Network Calathea, known for its intricate leaf patterns, is a standout member of the family.

Calatheas are known as prayer plants because they raise and lower their leaves from day to night. This movement is a response to the changing light conditions, and it's also a sign of a healthy plant. However, their love for humidity and specific light needs can make them a bit tricky to care for, especially if you're new to the plant parenting game.

Understanding your Calathea's natural habitat can provide clues on how to care for it, which is essential in troubleshooting any issues, like yellowing leaves. Let's dive into some of the common causes and solutions.

Watering Woes: Too Much or Too Little?

One of the most common reasons for yellowing leaves in Network Calatheas is improper watering. It sounds simple enough, but finding the right balance can be a bit like walking a tightrope. Too much water can lead to root rot, while too little can leave your plant parched and stressed.

Overwatering often results in yellow leaves that feel mushy to the touch. If you're noticing this, it might be time to adjust your watering habits. Calatheas prefer to be kept consistently moist but not soggy. A good rule of thumb is to let the top inch of soil dry out before giving it another drink.

On the flip side, underwatered Calatheas might also show yellowing leaves, but these will often be crispy or dry. In this case, you'll want to increase your watering frequency and monitor the soil's moisture levels more closely. Using a moisture meter can be a handy tool to help you keep track of your plant's needs.

Lighting: Finding the Sweet Spot

Lighting can also play a significant role in your Calathea's health. These plants prefer bright, indirect light, as direct sunlight can scorch their leaves and lead to yellowing. If your Calathea is sitting in a sunbeam, it might be time to relocate it to a shadier spot.

On the other hand, too little light can cause your plant to lose its vibrant color and result in yellow, droopy leaves. If your Calathea seems to be reaching for more light, consider moving it closer to a window or supplementing with a grow light if natural light is limited.

Remember, finding the perfect lighting condition can take some trial and error. Pay attention to your plant's response and adjust as needed. A happy Calathea will let you know when it's in the right spot.

Humidity Levels: Keeping It Cozy

Given their tropical roots, Calatheas thrive in high humidity. If your home is on the dry side, especially during winter months, your plant might struggle. Low humidity can cause the leaves to turn yellow and brown at the edges.

To boost humidity, you can try a few different methods:

• Grouping Plants: Place your Calathea near other plants to create a microclimate with higher humidity.
• Humidifier: Investing in a humidifier can make a big difference, especially if you have multiple humidity-loving plants.
• Pebble Tray: Set your plant's pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. As the water evaporates, it increases the humidity around the plant.

By maintaining a humidity level of 50-60%, you'll help your Calathea feel right at home.

Soil and Potting Considerations

The type of soil and pot you use can also impact your Calathea's health. These plants prefer a well-draining potting mix that retains some moisture without becoming waterlogged. A mix of peat, perlite, and orchid bark can provide a good balance.

When it comes to pots, make sure you're using one with drainage holes. This helps excess water escape and prevents root rot. If your Calathea is still in its nursery pot, consider repotting it into something a bit roomier, especially if the roots are starting to outgrow their current home.

Repotting can also be a good opportunity to check the roots for any signs of rot or disease. Healthy roots should be white and firm, while rotten roots will appear brown and mushy. Trim away any unhealthy roots before placing your plant in fresh soil.

Nutrient Needs: Feeding Your Calathea

Just like us, plants need the right nutrients to stay healthy. If your Calathea's leaves are turning yellow, it could be a sign of nutrient deficiency, particularly nitrogen. This nutrient is vital for leaf development, and a lack of it can lead to yellowing.

During the growing season (spring and summer), consider feeding your Calathea with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can also cause yellowing leaves. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer label for the best results.

In the fall and winter months, reduce or stop fertilizing, as the plant's growth naturally slows down. This will help prevent any nutrient-related stress during its resting phase.

Pest Patrol: Unwanted Guests

Pests can be another culprit behind yellowing leaves. Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs are common offenders that can sap the life from your Calathea. These tiny invaders are often hard to spot, but their damage is visible in the form of yellow, stippled leaves.

To tackle a pest problem:

• Regular Checks: Inspect your plant regularly for pests, especially on the underside of leaves where they like to hide.
• Shower Time: Give your plant a gentle shower to wash off any pests. This can help if you catch the infestation early.
• Neem Oil or Insecticidal Soap: For more persistent problems, use neem oil or insecticidal soap. These are safe for plants and effective against most common pests.

Keeping a watchful eye on your plant will help you catch any issues early and prevent a major infestation.

Temperature Troubles

Calatheas are sensitive to temperature changes and drafts, which can stress them out and cause yellowing leaves. They prefer a stable environment with temperatures between 65°F and 80°F. If your plant is near a drafty window or air vent, it might not be happy.

To create a more stable environment, try moving your Calathea away from drafts and sudden temperature changes. It's also a good idea to keep them away from heaters or air conditioners that can create hot or cold spots in your home.

Maintaining consistent temperatures will help reduce stress on your plant, allowing it to focus on growing those gorgeous leaves.

Stress and Transplant Shock

Sometimes, yellow leaves can be a sign of stress or transplant shock, especially if you've recently repotted your Calathea. Moving to a new pot can be a big change, and your plant might need some time to adjust.

If transplant shock is the issue, give your plant some TLC. Ensure it's getting the right amount of water, light, and humidity, and avoid making any more changes until it settles in. With time and patience, your Calathea should bounce back and start producing healthy new growth.

Remember, it's normal for a few leaves to turn yellow and fall off as your plant adjusts. Focus on the new growth to gauge your plant's overall health.

Final Thoughts

Yellowing leaves on your Network Calathea might be a cause for concern, but with the right care and attention, you can help your plant recover. From adjusting your watering habits to tweaking its environment, there are plenty of ways to get your Calathea back on track.

At Cafe Planta, we're passionate about helping you care for your plants. Whether you're looking for new houseplants, plant care accessories, or just some advice, we're here to assist. If you have any questions, feel free to email us or reach out on Instagram. We believe in the power of plants to bring joy and connection, and we're excited to be a part of your plant journey.