Calathea Ornata, also known as the Pinstripe Plant, stands out with its striking deep green leaves adorned by vibrant pink stripes and a rich burgundy underside. This captivating houseplant brings a touch of tropical elegance to indoor spaces, and its leaves exhibit a fascinating daily movement, folding upwards at night and unfurling with the morning light. Propagating your Calathea Ornata can refresh an older plant, expand your collection, or provide beautiful gifts for fellow plant enthusiasts.
When to Propagate Calathea Ornata
The most suitable time to propagate Calathea Ornata is during its active growth period, in spring or early summer. This timing allows the newly divided plants to establish themselves more readily. A mature Calathea Ornata that appears root-bound, with roots emerging from the drainage holes, or one that has developed multiple distinct growth points, signals its readiness for division. Ensure the mother plant is healthy and free from pests or stress before propagation, as a robust plant increases success.
Propagating Calathea Ornata by Division
Preparing for Division
Gather essential tools: a sharp, sterilized knife or shears, new pots with drainage holes, and fresh, well-draining potting mix. Sterilizing your cutting tools prevents pathogen transfer and infection. Water the mother plant thoroughly the day before propagation to loosen the soil and reduce transplant shock.
The Division Process
Gently remove the Calathea Ornata from its pot by tipping it or tapping the sides to loosen the root ball. Shake off excess soil to expose the root system. Calatheas are rhizomatous plants, growing from underground stems called rhizomes. Look for natural divisions within the root ball, appearing as distinct clumps of roots and stems. Each division should have at least two to three healthy leaves, a rhizome segment, and its own root system for successful growth.
Carefully separate these natural divisions using your fingers. If the root ball is dense, use a sharp, sterilized knife for clean cuts, prioritizing gentle separation to minimize root disturbance. Immediately pot each new division into its own container. Fill pots one-third full with fresh potting mix, creating a slight mound. Place the division on the mound at its original depth, then backfill with more potting mix, gently firming it around the roots.
Immediate Aftercare
After repotting, water each newly divided Calathea Ornata thoroughly until water drains from the bottom; this helps soil settle and removes air pockets. Place new plants in a warm location with bright, indirect light, avoiding direct sun. Create a humid microclimate immediately after division by placing a clear plastic bag loosely over the plant or using a humidity dome.
Caring for Newly Propagated Calathea Ornata
Once settled, consistent care is important for newly propagated Calathea Ornata. Provide bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural habitat. Direct sunlight scorches leaves, causing brown spots. East, west, or north-facing windows are suitable.
Maintain consistently moist soil, avoiding overwatering and root rot. Allow the top inch or two to dry slightly before watering. Use distilled, filtered, or rainwater to prevent leaf spotting from tap water minerals.
High humidity (50-80%) is ideal. Increase it by grouping plants, using a pebble tray, or a humidifier. Maintain temperatures between 65-80°F, protecting from cold drafts or sudden fluctuations.
Fertilize only after new growth appears (weeks to a month post-division). Use a balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, diluted to half strength, every two to four weeks during spring and summer.
Troubleshooting Propagation Challenges
Newly propagated Calathea Ornata can face challenges. Wilting leaves after division often signal transplant shock as the plant adjusts. Maintain high humidity and consistent moisture to alleviate stress; recovery may take several weeks. Yellowing leaves can indicate overwatering if soil is soggy, or insufficient humidity/underwatering if leaves dry out.
A lack of new growth indicates the plant is still recovering. Ensure proper light, humidity, and watering, and avoid over-fertilizing a stressed plant. If root rot is suspected due to prolonged wet soil, characterized by yellowing leaves and a soft stem base, unpot the plant, inspect roots, and trim away any black or mushy sections before repotting in fresh, well-draining soil.