Maranta Leuconeura Variegata (Prayer Plant) Care Guide:
Light: Place your Prayer Plant in bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can cause its delicate leaves to scorch, so filtered light or a spot away from direct rays is ideal.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water your Prayer Plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the leaves to wilt.
Humidity: Prayer Plants thrive in high humidity environments. To increase humidity, mist the leaves regularly or place a tray of water and pebbles beneath the plant to create a humid microclimate.
Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 18-24°C during the day and slightly cooler at night. Avoid placing your plant near drafts or heating vents, as sudden temperature fluctuations can stress the plant.
Soil: Use well-draining, peat-based soil to ensure proper moisture retention without waterlogging the roots.
Fertiliser: Feed your Prayer Plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Reduce fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows down.
Pruning: Trim any yellow or brown leaves as needed to maintain the plant's health and appearance. Regular pruning can also help to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation: Prayer Plants can be propagated through division or stem cuttings. Divide overcrowded clumps of stems and roots, or take stem cuttings with at least one leaf node and place them in water or moist soil until roots develop.
Pests: Keep an eye out for common houseplant pests such as spider mites and aphids. If pests are present, gently wipe the leaves with a damp cloth or treat with insecticidal soap.