Terrariums provide a fantastic way to bring nature indoors and create your little world. And guess what? You can have your mini-ecosystem in the form of a calathea terrarium! These stunning plants have unique qualities that make them the perfect fit for this environment.
This article will delve into the best practices for creating a thriving calathea terrarium and share tips to ensure your plant thrives in this new, exciting environment.
Materials Needed
We’ll go over the materials needed to grow Calathea in a terrarium and why they are necessary for successful growth.
1. Terrarium container
First things first, you’ll need a terrarium container that’s just right for your Calathea plant. Too small and your plant’s growth will be stunted, while too large will make it difficult to control the environment. It’s a delicate balance.
2. Potting soil
Next, you need potting soil that drains well and is packed with organic matter. Don’t just grab any old potting soil – choose one specifically formulated for indoor plants. Your Calathea will thank you.
3. Rocks or gravel
You’ll need rocks or gravel to line the bottom of your container, creating a drainage layer that prevents water from pooling around your plant’s roots. And remember activated charcoal! This natural filter purifies the air and removes toxins, making it a perfect addition to your Calathea terrarium.
4. Moss
Moss is also a must-have material for your terrarium. Not only does it retain moisture in the soil, but it also creates a natural environment that mimics the plant’s natural habitat.
5. Calathea plant
And speaking of the plant, you’ll need a healthy Calathea with vibrant foliage and zero signs of disease or pests.
7. Watering can
Last but not least, you’ll need a watering can or spray bottle to give your Calathea the hydration it needs to thrive. Use room temperature water and wait until the soil feels dry before watering.
Soil and Potting
1. Preparing the Soil
Calathea plants demand well-draining soil that’s brimming with nutrients. So, what’s the best mix for a thriving plant in a terrarium? Buckle up because we’re about to dive into the nitty-gritty of soil preparation!
You’ll need equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. These three elements, when combined, can provide the ideal growing conditions for your plant. Mix them well so that the soil is evenly distributed.
The real secret to success, though, is to add water to the soil mix. Here’s where it gets tricky – add enough water to moisten the mix but not soaking wet. Too much water can be a real downer for your plant’s growth.
Once you’ve added the water, let the soil mix sit for a few minutes to absorb it. This step is crucial, so don’t rush it! When the mix is ready, you can transfer it into the terrarium.
But wait, there’s more! You must spread the soil evenly across the bottom of the terrarium to create a level surface. This will ensure that your plant has a solid foundation to grow on.
2. Potting the Calathea
To start, you must select a perfect pot for your plant. You can choose a plain or decorative pot, but the most important thing is that it has drainage holes. Without these holes, your Calathea can drown and become a withered mess.
Before potting your Calathea, scrutinize the plant for any signs of damage or disease. Remove any damaged leaves or stems before you proceed with the potting process. This will ensure that your plant has a healthy start in its new home.
When you’re ready to pot the Calathea, gently loosen the roots from the soil and place the plant in the center of the soil mix. Remember to position the plant at the same level as in its original pot. Once you have the plant in place, pat down the soil around the base of the plant to keep it secure.
After potting your Calathea, the next step is to give it a good drink of water. Water your plant thoroughly until the soil is moist but not drenched. Overwatering can cause root rot, so be careful not to go overboard.
And voila! Your Calathea is now potted and ready to grow in its new terrarium home.
Watering and Humidity
Watering and humidity are two crucial factors that can make or break the growth of your Calathea plant. Their delicate nature requires special attention to watering and humidity levels.
A. Watering Calathea in a terrarium
Watering Calathea in a terrarium requires a careful balance between not overwatering or underwatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases, while underwatering can cause wilting and stunted growth. To properly water your Calathea in a terrarium, follow these steps:
1. Check the soil: Before watering your Calathea, check the soil moisture level. Insert your finger into the soil up to the first knuckle. If it feels dry, it’s time to water your plant.
2. Water thoroughly: When you water your Calathea, water it thoroughly. Pour water slowly into the soil until it starts to come out of the drainage holes. This ensures the water reaches the roots and the soil is evenly moist.
3. Avoid standing water: Empty any standing water in the terrarium to prevent root rot and fungal diseases.
4. Monitor soil moisture: Keep an eye on the soil moisture level and only water your Calathea when the soil feels dry.
B. Proper Humidity Levels for Calathea
Calatheas are native to tropical regions and thrive in high humidity. To maintain healthy growth, it’s essential to provide the proper humidity levels for your Calathea. Here are some tips to help you maintain proper humidity levels for your Calathea:
1. Group your plants: Grouping your Calatheas in a terrarium can create a microclimate with higher humidity levels.
2. Use a pebble tray: Place a tray filled with pebbles and water underneath your Calathea to increase the humidity levels around the plant.
3. Use a humidifier: If you live in a dry climate, consider using a humidifier to maintain the proper humidity levels for your Calathea.
4. Mist your plant: Mist your Calathea with a spray bottle filled with water to increase the humidity levels around the plant.
Identifying and Treating Common Issues
1. Brown Tips: If the tips of your Calathea’s leaves turn brown, it may be a sign that the plant is not getting enough moisture. To fix this issue, increase the frequency of your watering and misting.
2. Yellow Leaves: If the leaves of your Calathea are turning yellow, it may be a sign of overwatering. To fix this issue, reduce your watering frequency and ensure the soil is well-draining.
3. Curling Leaves: If the leaves of your Calathea are curling, it may be a sign that the plant is not getting enough humidity. To fix this issue, mist the plant more frequently and consider placing a humidifier near the terrarium.
4. Pest Infestations: Calathea plants are susceptible to various pests, including spider mites and mealybugs. Suppose you notice any signs of pest infestation, such as yellowing leaves or webbing on the plant. One way to treat pest infestations is to spray the plant with neem oil, a natural insecticide.
Wrap Up
In wrapping up this article, we hope you’ve found our perplexing and bursty guide helpful for growing Calathea in a terrarium. Sticking to the plan outlined above guarantees that your plant flourishes in its brand-new habitat. Remember that it’s essential to keep your terrarium adequately moist and avoid exposing your plant to direct sunlight.
Calatheas are best suited to low or medium light environments. With the proper care and attention, your Calathea will become an amazing new addition to your home or office. Give it a shot and see what kind of indoor gardening enthusiasm you can unearth!
