Why Calathea Plants Get Brown Leaves

 

 

Hi Deborah,

There are several reasons why Calathea plants get brown spots on their leaves.

Humidity: High humidity is a must! A Calathea plant gets brown leaf edges when the air is too dry. Humidity can be increased by placing your plant on a tray of wet pebbles (be sure the pot is on the pebbles and not in the water), setting a humidifier close by, or by grouping plants together to create a greenhouse effect.

Water: Calatheas are very sensitive to the water you use. Hard water, soft water, fluoridated water, or water of poor quality causes the leaves to turn brown/yellow from leaf burn. The best way to water a calathea is to use distilled water, rain water, or allow your tap water to sit out over night before using it. Keep the soil moist but never soggy. Allow the top 2-3” to dry out before watering. Never let a Calathea plant sit in water. Never use water that has passed through a softener; it is too salty and the salt burns the leaves. Avoid using cold water.

Location: Do not place a calathea in the direct sun or where they could be in a cold draft from open doors or windows.

You can read all my care tips in the Popular Houseplant section of the website.

https://www.houseplant411.com/houseplant/calathea-plant-how-to-grow-care-guide