Repotting in Summer? Avoid These 5 Deadly Mistakes

4. The Calathea: Forgetting to Water Correctly After Repotting

Ah, the Calathea. The beautiful, patterned, “prayer plant” that moves with the sun.

If you own one, you know they are the undisputed drama queens of the plant world.

I remember being so proud after successfully repotting my first one. I thought I had nailed it. But then the real challenge began: the watering.

I was terrified of root rot, so I’d let it get too dry. Then I’d see a slight droop and, in a panic, I’d drown it.

The poor thing responded with those dreaded crispy brown edges and sad, yellowing leaves. It was a mess.

The Post-Repotting Thirst Trap

Here’s the deal: a repotted plant is stressed out. Its roots have been disturbed, and its ability to take up water is a little shaky for a while.

For a plant as notoriously fussy about water as a Calathea, getting the hydration right after this stressful event is everything.

It is the single most important factor in its recovery.

You’re walking a fine line between giving it the drink it desperately needs and sending it into a waterlogged panic.

The Golden Rule of Watering

After much trial and (a lot of) error, I found the foolproof method. It’s a simple, two-step process.

First: Immediately after you nestle the plant into its new pot, water it thoroughly.

And by thoroughly, I mean keep watering until you see it running freely out of the drainage holes. This helps the new soil settle in around the roots and eliminates any air pockets.

Second: Now, leave it alone. The most important step is to let it breathe. Don’t water it again until the top inch of the soil is completely dry to the touch.

One deep, satisfying drink, and then a little drying out period. That’s the secret.

Hold the Fertilizer & Upgrade Your Water

Whatever you do, please do not fertilize your Calathea right after repotting.

Think of its roots as being tender and wounded. Adding fertilizer now is like pouring salt on a wound. It will cause fertilizer burn and do way more harm than good.

You must wait at least 4-6 weeks before you even think about giving it any plant food.

And now for my favorite Calathea hack. If you’re tired of those crispy brown tips, it’s probably your tap water.

Start using filtered water, distilled water, or even rainwater if you can collect it. Tap water is often full of minerals and chlorine that Calatheas just can’t stand. This one simple change can make your plant look a million times better.

We’ve now tamed the diva. But what about the most easy-going plant of them all? It’s so forgiving that we often make one final, crucial mistake, thinking we’re helping it recover faster…

Click the ‘Next’ button to uncover the final deadly summer repotting sin involving the humble Pothos!