Planting a peacock plant (Calathea) involves careful attention to soil, light, and watering to ensure it thrives. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Choosing the Right Pot and Soil:
- Pot: Select a pot with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. The size should be appropriate for the plant's current root ball, allowing room for growth.
- Soil: Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix. This type of mix retains moisture while allowing excess water to escape. You can enhance drainage further by adding perlite or vermiculite to the mix.
2. Planting:
- Remove the Plant: Gently remove the peacock plant from its current container, being careful not to damage the roots.
- Loosen the Roots: If the roots are tightly packed, gently loosen them with your fingers.
- Planting Depth: Place the plant in the new pot so that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
- Fill with Soil: Fill the pot with the peat-based potting mix, gently pressing down to secure the plant.
3. Watering:
- Initial Watering: Water the newly planted peacock plant thoroughly until water drains out of the drainage holes. This helps settle the soil around the roots.
- Ongoing Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry.
4. Light and Location:
- Indirect Light: Place the plant in a location that receives bright, indirect light. An ideal spot would be near a window with sheer curtains or in a room with plenty of natural light but shielded from direct sun exposure. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
5. Humidity:
- Peacock plants thrive in high humidity. Consider placing the pot on a pebble tray filled with water or using a humidifier to increase the humidity around the plant.
Summary: Planting a peacock plant successfully relies on using well-draining soil, providing bright, indirect light, and maintaining consistent moisture without overwatering. High humidity will further encourage healthy growth.
