The Best Fertilizer for Calatheas

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Detail image of the Calathea Medallion's colorful foliage

The best fertilizer for Calatheas

Want your Calathea to grow healthy, lush, and full of beautifully colorful leaves? The right fertilizer can help, but you don't need anything complicated.

The best fertilizer for Calathea is a balanced, diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer. A gentle formula like this one is ideal because Calatheas can be sensitive to excess fertilizer.

How often should you fertilize a Calathea?

Fertilize your Calathea about once a month during spring and summer, when it's actively growing.

In fall and winter, when growth slows down, stop or reduce fertilizing.

Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer bottle. And remember: more fertilizer isn't better! Too much can cause brown leaf edges and damage the roots.

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Does Calathea need special fertilizer?

No. You don't need a fertilizer specifically made for Calatheas.

A balanced liquid fertilizer for houseplants works well. If you're concerned about overfertilizing, use it at a weaker concentration than the maximum recommended on the label.

Note that fertilizer isn't the most important part of Calathea care. Bright, indirect light, consistent moisture, and good humidity are much more important.

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Calathea Fertilizer FAQs

Why are my Calathea's leaves turning brown after fertilizing?

You may be using too much fertilizer. Excess fertilizer can build up in the soil and cause brown leaf edges. Try reducing the amount and make sure you're not letting the soil dry out completely.

Should I fertilize my Calathea in winter?

Usually, no. Calatheas grow more slowly in winter and generally don't need regular feeding.

Can I use regular houseplant fertilizer on a Calathea?

Yes. You don't need a special Calathea fertilizer. A gentle, [balanced fertilizer made for indoor plants] (https://www.leonandgeorge.com/accessories/natural-plant-food) works well.

Can you overfertilize a Calathea?

Yes. Calatheas can be sensitive to excess fertilizer. Too much can cause brown or crispy leaf edges and damage the roots.

How often should I fertilize my Calathea?

Fertilize about once a month during spring and summer. Reduce or stop feeding during fall and winter.

What is the best fertilizer for Calathea?

A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer, used at a diluted strength, is a good choice for Calatheas.

Sources

This article was written with insights from the certified Plant Doctors at Léon & George. Experts in botany and horticulture, our Plant Doctors are seasoned professionals with years of experience caring for plants, both in their work and at home as passionate hobbyists. Their guidance ensures that our plant care recommendations are rooted in scientific knowledge and practical expertise.

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