Peacock Plant Care: How To Grow These Tropical Houseplants

Calathea makoyana, also known as the Peacock Plant, is a gorgeous tropical indoor plant that is known for its vivid leaf patterns that mimic a peacock’s feathers. This plant, native to the jungles of Brazil, grows well in the moist, shady environment of its natural habitat.

New and seasoned houseplant lovers are drawn to the Peacock Plant because of its exquisite leaves and air-purifying properties. Moreover, the reddish-maroon stem and dark-purple underside of the leaves make them a very great addition to any indoor garden.

The Peacock plant care is very long as you can mimic the natural habitat of this plant, that is no bright light and lots of humidity. And, under the right conditions, this ornamental plant can improve the overall appeal of your home garden. So, let’s have a look at how you can take care of the Peacock Plant.

What Makes The Peacock Plant So Famous?

The wide, oval-shaped leaves of the peacock plant are renowned for their complex patterns. The underside of the leaves is frequently a deep maroon or purple, while the upper side displays a variety of colors of green with dark green lines emanating from the center vein. The plant is a good size for most indoor areas, reaching a maximum height of 2 feet and a maximum width of 2 feet.

The plant produces tiny, white flowers. Because they are pet-friendly, these non-toxic, high-humidity specimens are popular houseplants.

Peacock Plant Care

Peacock plant care is fairly easy and just like many other indoor plants, this plant can also thrive under minimal maintenance.

Light

A bright and indirect light is ideal for the peacock plant. Their delicate leaves can be scorched by direct sunshine, making them fade or acquire brown patches. On the other hand, insufficient light might cause a plant to develop slowly and have less colorful leaves. The plant should be placed a few feet away from a south or west window that lets in filtered light, but a north or east-facing window is preferable.

This plant can also survive under low-light conditions, however, for better peacock plant care, it is suggested to keep it under a bright light source.

Water

The soil should never be damp, but it should be regularly moist for the peacock plant. When the top inch of soil appears dry to the touch, water the plant. The Peacock plant may require more regular watering in the spring and summer when it is growing, but in the winter, it will require less water.

This plant is susceptible to fluoride and chlorine in tap water, which can turn the tips of its leaves brown. For better peacock plant care use distilled or filtered water to prevent this. You can also keep tap water outside for 24 hrs which lets the chemicals evaporate.

Similar Read – How To Water Plants?

Soil

For the Peacock Plant, a potting mix with a peat foundation that drains properly is ideal. Peat, perlite, and pine bark can be mixed in equal amounts to make your mixture. This mixture helps in retaining moisture and prevents root rot. Also, make sure the pot you choose has holes for drainage so that extra water may be released.

Temperature And Humidity

The ideal temperature range for this tropical plant is 65–80°F (18–27°C). Because of its sensitivity to temperature changes, keep the peacock plant away from drafts, heaters, and air conditioners. A high humidity level is necessary for the health of the peacock plant. Aim for 60% or more relative humidity. If your house is dry, try spraying the leaves frequently, putting the plant on a pebble tray with water, or using a humidifier.

Fertilizing

The Peacock plant might need some feeding during its growing season to produce its brightly-colored foliage. For that, use a water-soluble, balanced fertilizer diluted to its half-strength. Feed your plant once every 2 weeks.

You can also use organic fertilizers such as compost tea to improve the soil quality over time.

Read More on – How To Fertilize Plants.

Pruning

Remove any dead or yellowing leaves from your peacock plant regularly to keep it looking its best. This avoids possible pest issues and plant diseases in addition to enhancing the plant’s look. In addition to promoting bushier growth, pruning can result in a fuller, more appealing plant.

The big leaves of the Peacock plant may get covered in dust, which would hinder their capacity to photosynthesize. To keep the leaves clean and healthy, gently wipe them with a moist towel every few weeks. For a better peacock plant, care to clean the plant regularly. This also allows you to check it for pests, such as spider mites, which are widespread in dry environments.

Repotting

Once the roots of your peacock plant start to crowd out the drainage holes, it’s time to repot it every one to two years. Steady growth and regular wilting despite care are other indicators that plant repotting is required.

Propagation

Since Calatheas usually do not grow well from cuttings or seeds, division is the most efficient method of propagating a Peacock Plant. Here are some steps you can follow to propagate your plant –

• The spring or early summer is the ideal time to divide your peacock plant.
• Prepare extra pots and a sanitized, sharp knife.
• Carefully divide the plant into smaller portions, making sure that each division has a minimum of one or two leaves and a robust root system.
• Fill each division with fresh soil in its container, and give them plenty of water.
• Keep the newly planted plants in a warm, humid atmosphere and give them regular irrigation to help them get established.

Also Read – How To Propagate Plants?

Common Problems With The Peacock Plant

Even though this is a low-maintenance plant, too much negligence in Peacock plant care can result in some problems that your plant might face.

• Browning or yellowing leaves are frequently an indication of low humidity or incorrect irrigation. While low humidity might result in browning around the margins, overwatering can induce root rot, which turns leaves yellow. To solve these problems, change the time that you water your plants and raise the humidity.
• Mealybugs and spider mites are the most frequent pests that harm peacock plants. Examine the leaves frequently, and use neem oil or insecticidal soap to quickly treat infestations. Overly damp circumstances can lead to fungal problems, so make sure there is adequate air circulation and steer clear of soggy soil.
• The plant may be stressed by sudden changes in temperature or thirsty if its leaves are curled or drooping. Check the soil’s moisture content and make sure the plant is not exposed to any cold drafts. If the soil is dry, water the plant and transfer it to a more stable location.

Conclusion

Taking good care of a Peacock Plant can yield great rewards because its vivid leaves lend an air of natural beauty to any interior area. You may have a happy, healthy peacock plant by giving it the proper amount of light, water, and humidity and by taking quick care of any problems that may arise. The magnificent beauty and air-purifying properties of the Peacock Plant make it a perfect addition to any indoor garden, regardless of expertise level with plants.