chilling temperature sensitivity on Calathea
Quick answer
If your Calathea has chilling temperature sensitivity, the most likely cause is: Calathea makoyana experiences severe photoinhibition when chilled (5-10°C) under even moderate irradiance (120 μmol m-2 s-1). Chilling disrupts photosystem II efficiency, causing irreversible damage below Fv/Fm 0.4, with chilled illuminated zones developing chlorosis and necrosis. Unchilled leaf tips experience secondary photoinhibition via sink limitation from starch accumulation.
Start here:
- 1. Move plant immediately to warm location (20-25°C) if exposed to cold
- 2. Remove damaged leaves showing necrosis or severe chlorosis
Why Calathea gets chilling temperature sensitivity
Goeppertia spp.
Calathea makoyana experiences severe photoinhibition when chilled (5-10°C) under even moderate irradiance (120 μmol m-2 s-1). Chilling disrupts photosystem II efficiency, causing irreversible damage below Fv/Fm 0.4, with chilled illuminated zones developing chlorosis and necrosis. Unchilled leaf tips experience secondary photoinhibition via sink limitation from starch accumulation.
How to reverse chilling temperature sensitivity on Calathea
- 1
Move plant immediately to warm location (20-25°C) if exposed to cold
- 2
Remove damaged leaves showing necrosis or severe chlorosis
- 3
Maintain consistent moderate light without sudden increases during recovery
- 4
Increase humidity to 70% during recovery period to reduce additional stress
Keep chilling temperature sensitivity off this Calathea
Maintain temperatures above 18°C (65°F) at all times. Keep plants away from cold drafts, air conditioning vents, and windows during winter months.