What to Do When Calathea Ornata Leaves Curl? Causes and Solutions

Calathea ornata (pin-stripe calathea) is a relatively shade-tolerant plant species, very suitable for growing at home. Even in a room with fairly dim light, growing it for a period of time has no great effect on its growth. However, some friends encounter curling leaves on Calathea ornata during cultivation, which affects its ornamental value to some extent. Below, Qinnong Web tells you what to do when Calathea ornata leaves curl.

I. Causes of Curling Leaves on Calathea Ornata

To know what to do when Calathea ornata leaves curl, we first need to understand why the leaves curl. Qinnong Web has summarized three causes here, including too much or too little water, sunlight that is too strong, and pest and disease infestation. Let us take a closer look below.

1. Improper watering

Improper watering is one of the causes of curling leaves on Calathea ornata. Calathea ornata is quite sensitive to water. If it is watered too little or the air humidity is insufficient, its leaves will curl. If water is lacking during the new leaf growth period, dry air will make it difficult for new leaves to unfurl, with leaf margins scorched and yellowing, and small, lusterless leaves, seriously affecting the ornamental effect. But if watered too much, with severe water accumulation in the pot, the leaves of Calathea ornata will also curl, the roots will rot, and the plant may even die.

2. Sunlight too strong

Calathea ornata is relatively shade-tolerant. Generally, providing it with a semi-shaded environment is enough to meet its sunlight needs. Light that is too strong or direct sunlight will instead cause its leaves to curl.

3. Effects of pests and diseases

This is a point that is relatively difficult to control. Once Calathea ornata is attacked by pathogens, the leaves will gradually curl and wither, and in severe cases the leaves will also drop. If no treatment is given at this time, the pathogens will soon affect the entire plant.

II. Solutions for Curling Leaves on Calathea Ornata

1. The leaves of Calathea ornata are relatively large and water evaporates rather quickly, so it should be watered in time, preferably by spraying, and the amount of watering should gradually increase as new leaves grow. At the same time, spraying water can also increase the humidity in the air. Under normal circumstances, the humidity of the growing environment for Calathea ornata should be kept at around 85%—90%.

2. Avoid direct sunlight

Calathea ornata prefers a semi-shaded environment, so it should be grown in a shaded environment. If you worry that too little light will cause poor plant growth, you can place Calathea ornata on a balcony, windowsill or similar spot every so often to absorb diffused light. Never let it receive direct sunlight in midsummer or at noon.

3. Pest and disease control

The prevention and control of pests and diseases require us to pay special attention to observation in daily care. Once signs of pests or diseases are found, measures must be taken immediately. At the same time, during care, attention should also be paid to maintaining air circulation and the permeability and drainage of the soil, to reduce the possibility of pests and diseases occurring.

The above is what Qinnong Web introduces regarding the causes of and solutions for curling leaves on Calathea ornata, and we hope it can be of some help to everyone. In addition, Qinnong Web also reminds everyone that Calathea ornata is a tropical plant and is not cold-tolerant in winter. If you want it to overwinter safely, you need to keep the temperature above 10°C.