root rot on Calathea Medallion
Quick answer
If your Calathea Medallion has root rot, the most likely cause is: Calathea Medallion (rose-painted calathea) belongs to the Calathea group of prayer plants that are highly sensitive to sitting in saturated soil; the book's Calathea chapter warns that letting the plant sit in water in a poorly drained pot, combined with the species' sensitivity to the chemicals in tap water, sets up the anaerobic soil conditions that lead to root rot in this variety.
Start here:
- 1. Water only when the top 2 inches (5cm) of soil are dry, using distilled water or rainwater rather than tap water because Calatheas are sensitive to the chemicals in tap water.
- 2. Always allow excess water to drain out of the pot drainage holes, making sure the plant is never sitting in water, to prevent root rot.
Why Calathea Medallion gets root rot
calathea medallion
Calathea Medallion (rose-painted calathea) belongs to the Calathea group of prayer plants that are highly sensitive to sitting in saturated soil; the book's Calathea chapter warns that letting the plant sit in water in a poorly drained pot, combined with the species' sensitivity to the chemicals in tap water, sets up the anaerobic soil conditions that lead to root rot in this variety.
How to reverse root rot on Calathea Medallion
- 1
Water only when the top 2 inches (5cm) of soil are dry, using distilled water or rainwater rather than tap water because Calatheas are sensitive to the chemicals in tap water.
- 2
Always allow excess water to drain out of the pot drainage holes, making sure the plant is never sitting in water, to prevent root rot.
- 3
Pot Calathea Medallion in the book-recommended diva mix: 50 percent regular potting compost mixed with 20 percent charcoal, 20 percent orchid bark, and a porous balance that stays moist but never soaking wet.
Keep root rot off this Calathea Medallion
Place Calathea Medallion in bright indirect light only (never direct sun) and keep the ambient environment warm and humid, because Calatheas are very sensitive to chilly temperatures or any sudden change in indoor temperature and grow best in warm, humid environments; the chapter frames Calathea Medallion as a Diva Plant whose specific soil and water needs must all be met to keep roots healthy.