Calathea plants, with striking foliage, are popular additions to indoor plant collections. Propagating Calatheas by dividing their rhizomes is an effective technique to expand your collection or rejuvenate an existing plant. This method utilizes the plant’s natural growth habit to create new, healthy specimens.
Understanding Calathea Rhizomes
Calatheas possess rhizomes, modified underground stems that grow horizontally, acting as storage organs and producing roots and shoots. This growth habit contributes to their clumping nature, making division a suitable propagation method. Propagating through rhizome division creates new plants genetically identical to the parent. This method also benefits an overgrown parent plant by reducing its size and preventing it from becoming root-bound, where roots become too dense within the pot.
When to Propagate Calathea
The best time for Calathea propagation is during the plant’s active growing season, typically spring or early summer. This vigorous growth phase allows newly divided plants to establish and recover faster. Propagation is also convenient when a mature Calathea has outgrown its pot and requires repotting. Signs your plant is ready for division include roots emerging from drainage holes or decreased vigor due to being root-bound. A healthy parent plant, ideally at least two years old, is best suited for division.
Gathering Your Tools
Gather a clean, sharp knife or shears for precise cuts. Sterilize these tools with rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol) or a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) to prevent disease spread. Prepare new pots with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix suitable for Calatheas, often including coco coir, perlite, and bark for aeration and moisture retention. A watering can will also be needed for post-propagation care.
Step-by-Step Rhizome Division
Water your Calathea thoroughly a day or two before to hydrate roots and moisten the soil. This eases plant removal and reduces stress. Gently remove the plant from its container, tapping the sides to loosen the root ball.
Once unpotted, gently remove excess soil to expose the rhizomes and identify natural divisions. You will see distinct clumps of roots and stems, each originating from a rhizome.
Carefully separate these natural divisions, either by gently teasing them apart or using your sterilized knife or shears for clean cuts if roots are intertwined. Each section needs a healthy portion of roots and at least one leaf or growth point. Avoid excessive pulling or tearing, as Calathea roots are delicate.
Prepare new pots by adding a layer of fresh, well-draining potting mix. Position each division in the center, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Fill the remaining space with potting mix, gently tamping it down without compacting the soil.
Caring for New Calathea Divisions
After potting, water each new division thoroughly but not excessively to help the soil settle. Ensure excess water drains freely to prevent root rot. The soil should remain consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Place newly potted divisions in bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural shaded habitat. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch delicate leaves. Maintain a stable temperature, ideally between 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (16-29°C), for recovery.
High humidity is important for Calatheas, particularly for new divisions recovering from propagation stress. Consider placing them in a humid room like a bathroom, using a pebble tray, or employing a humidifier. Covering pots with clear plastic bags can also create a temporary greenhouse effect to increase humidity; remove bags once new growth appears.
Troubleshooting Common Propagation Issues
It is normal for newly divided Calatheas to experience some transplant shock, which may manifest as temporary wilting or drooping leaves. This is typically a sign the plant is adjusting to its new environment and re-establishing its root system. Providing consistent care during this period often allows the plant to recover.
Persistent wilting or yellowing leaves may indicate overwatering or insufficient drainage. Check soil moisture and ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot. Brown leaf tips often signal low humidity, a common issue for Calatheas indoors.
Increase ambient humidity through misting, pebble trays, or a humidifier. A lack of new growth within a few weeks suggests the plant is still recovering or conditions are not optimal. Patience is key, as new roots take time to establish and show visible growth. Continue providing indirect light and consistent moisture, avoiding fertilizer until new growth is evident (typically after a few weeks to a month).