Marantas is the popular name given to the species of the family Marantaceae. It is a set of more than 30 tropical species that call attention for their patterned leaves. Some of the most popular types are Calathea, Ctenanthe It is stromanthe.
You might also know them as “prayer plants,” as their leaves move throughout the day. There is still debate in the scientific community about why this happens, but it is believed that it may be a mechanism to avoid prolonged exposure to the Sun. Another curiosity is that the species Ctenanthe burle marxii was named after the Brazilian landscaper Burle Marx.
How to care for marantas
To grow maranta you need a well-draining tropical soil mix. Worms, peat moss and coconut shells are good additions to your land. Don’t leave it too close to windows or very hot places, as they will cause your plant to dry out. The best time to plant is spring.
Water
Watering needs to be constant, especially if you are using a clay pot. Prayer plants like water, so if an inch or two of your soil is dry, you’re ready to water. Remember to check the vase frequently.
One tip is to spray the leaves of the plant and add a humidifier or a glass of water next to the plant to increase humidity. If the tips of the leaves are turning yellow and falling apart, it’s probably because there isn’t enough moisture in your environment.
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Be careful, however, not to let the roots flooded! Marantas need pots with good drainage. Putting some charcoal or pumice stone on the bottom are also good options to prevent water from accumulating. If you find that your plant is experiencing chlorosis, it could be caused by poor drainage or a buildup of salt and minerals.
Light
Although the amount of light needed can vary between different species, generally all Marantaceae they enjoy medium indirect light, i.e. leave them near windows that don’t get direct sun.
Fertilization
Feed your maranta monthly or bimonthly during the growing season (spring, summer, fall) by diluting any synthetic fertilizer in a quart of water or use a low-dosage natural fertilizer.
how to propagate
The easiest way to propagate maranta is by division. In fact, these houseplants tend to do best when divided and repotted each year in early spring, before the plant’s growing season begins.
- Prepare an appropriately sized pot of fresh soil. Using one hand to hold the stems and protect the leaves, gently tilt the pot and remove the plant.
- Use your hands to gently loosen the soil around the mother plant’s roots. Carefully part the roots a bit to see where there’s a nice bunch of stems that aren’t too connected to the parent plant. Gently pull or cut any connected roots between the two groups.
- Replant your new plant in the new container with fresh soil. Replant the mother plant in an appropriately sized pot with fresh soil as well.
- Water and cover your new plant with a clear plastic bag to help retain moisture until you see new growth. During this time, keep your plant in a location with less light than usual while it adjusts to its new pot.
See some maranta varieties in the gallery below!
*Via Pistilsnursery It is My Domain