The Calathea makoyana, often called the Watermelon Calathea, is celebrated for its distinctive foliage. Its striking oval leaves feature intricate patterns of light and dark green, with a contrasting purple-red underside. This plant originates from the tropical rainforests of eastern Brazil, where it thrives in warm, humid, and shaded conditions. Its ornamental appeal makes it a popular choice among houseplant enthusiasts.
Watermelon Calathea Care
Light
Watermelon Calatheas thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural habitat. Direct sunlight can scorch leaves and fade their vibrant patterns. While the plant can tolerate lower light levels, optimal growth and more pronounced variegation occur with consistent bright, indirect exposure. A spot near a window with a sheer curtain provides ideal conditions for this plant.
Watering
Maintaining consistent soil moisture is important for Watermelon Calatheas. The soil should remain moist but never waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. Water when the top 10-15% of the soil feels dry to the touch. Using filtered, distilled, or rainwater is preferred, as these plants are sensitive to minerals and chemicals in tap water that can cause leaf browning. If the plant becomes limp, the soil may be too dry; a thorough watering should help it perk up.
Humidity
High humidity is important for Watermelon Calatheas, reflecting their tropical rainforest origins. They prefer humidity levels between 60% and 80%, with a minimum of 50%. Insufficient humidity can lead to crispy leaf edges or curling. To increase humidity, consider placing the plant on a pebble tray, grouping it with other plants, or using a room humidifier.
Soil
The ideal soil mix for Watermelon Calatheas is well-draining, retains moisture, and is rich in organic matter. A suitable blend includes components like peat moss, perlite, or orchid bark for aeration and drainage. Adding a small amount of sphagnum moss can help maintain consistent moisture. This combination supports healthy root development and prevents oversaturation.
Temperature
Watermelon Calatheas prefer a stable temperature range, between 18°C and 24°C (65°F to 75°F). They are sensitive to cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations, which can stress the plant and lead to leaf damage. Protect them from temperatures below 15°C (60°F), as they are not frost-tolerant. Placing them away from open windows, air conditioning vents, or heating units helps maintain a consistent environment.
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring through fall), Watermelon Calatheas benefit from regular fertilization. A diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer applied every other watering or once a month is sufficient. Dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the plant. During the dormant period in fall and winter, reduce or stop fertilization entirely to allow the plant to rest.
Common Problems and Solutions
Watermelon Calatheas can exhibit several common issues, often signaling environmental imbalances. Crispy leaf edges frequently indicate low humidity or underwatering, as the plant struggles to retain moisture. Curling leaves can also be a sign of insufficient watering, low humidity, or exposure to cold drafts. Addressing these by increasing humidity and ensuring consistent soil moisture can help resolve these symptoms.
Faded leaf patterns suggest the plant is receiving too much direct light, which can bleach the vibrant colors. Moving the plant to a location with bright, indirect light will help restore its characteristic variegation. General leaf yellowing may point to overwatering or a nutrient deficiency. Adjusting watering frequency to avoid soggy soil and providing balanced fertilization can mitigate this. Common pests like spider mites and mealybugs can affect these plants; regular inspection and appropriate horticultural treatments can manage infestations.
Propagating Watermelon Calathea
Propagating Watermelon Calathea is best achieved through division, a process typically performed during repotting in the spring or early summer. This method involves carefully separating the plant’s rhizomes, which are underground stems that produce new shoots and roots. Gently remove the plant from its pot and brush away excess soil from the root ball. Identify natural divisions where individual plantlets with their own roots and foliage can be separated.
Carefully pull apart or use a clean, sharp knife to divide the rhizomes, ensuring each new section has a healthy portion of roots and at least a few leaves. Pot each division into its own small container using a fresh, appropriate soil mix. After division, provide the newly separated plants with warm, humid conditions and consistent moisture to encourage root establishment and new growth.
Repotting Watermelon Calathea
Repotting a Watermelon Calathea is typically needed when the plant shows signs of being root-bound, such as roots circling the pot, or if its growth slows significantly. The best time for repotting is during the spring or early summer, which aligns with the plant’s active growth period. When choosing a new pot, select one that is only slightly larger than the current one, perhaps 1-2 inches wider in diameter, to avoid excessive soil moisture retention.
Gently remove the plant from its old container, taking care not to damage the roots. Place a layer of fresh, well-draining soil mix at the bottom of the new pot, position the plant, and then backfill with more soil, ensuring the plant is at the same depth as it was previously. After repotting, water thoroughly and place the plant in its usual bright, indirect light location, allowing it time to adjust to its new environment.