To water your Calathea, the simplest and most effective method is to check the soil moisture level.
The Core Principle: Checking Soil Moisture
Watering instructions for Calathea are generally straightforward. The primary rule is to assess the soil directly to determine if your plant needs a drink. You should water your plant when the top two inches of soil is dry to the touch.
This method ensures you are watering based on the plant's actual needs and environmental conditions rather than a fixed schedule, which can lead to over or under-watering.
Understanding Watering Frequency
While the principle of checking soil dryness is constant, how often you need to do this can vary significantly. Watering frequency depends on several factors, including:
- Season: Plants typically require more water during warmer months when they are actively growing.
- Environmental Conditions: Factors like the amount of light the plant receives and the ambient temperature directly impact how quickly the soil dries out.
For instance, during the summer, when temperatures are higher and light is often brighter, you might find yourself watering more frequently. According to typical Calathea care guidelines, in the summer, you could potentially need to water your plant a couple of times a week. This frequency is directly tied to how much light it is getting and how quickly the soil is drying out in those conditions.
Key Takeaway
Always rely on checking the soil moisture rather than watering on a strict calendar schedule. The "top two inches dry" rule is your best indicator for when your Calathea is ready for water.
