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Pale Leaves in Calathea Makoyana
verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team
The Calathea Makoyana, known as the Peacock Plant, displays extraordinary oval leaves with intricate patterns of dark green feathering on a lighter green background, resembling peacock plumage
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Calathea Makoyana care requirements
These care conditions are most relevant to pale leaves in Calathea Makoyana. Check each one as a potential cause.
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Light
Medium to bright, indirect light; avoid direct sun which can scorch leaves; prefers consistent, filtered light conditions
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Fertiliser
Apply diluted balanced fertilizer every 3–4 weeks during spring and summer; discontinue in fall and winter
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Water
Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged; water when top inch feels dry; always use distilled or rainwater to prevent mineral damage
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Symptoms to look for in Calathea Makoyana
- fiber_manual_recordWashed-out, pale colour
- fiber_manual_recordYellowing between veins
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Common causes in Calathea Makoyana
- fiber_manual_recordIron deficiency
- fiber_manual_recordMagnesium deficiency
- fiber_manual_recordToo much direct sun
- fiber_manual_recordAlkaline soil
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How to diagnose pale leaves in Calathea Makoyana
Interveinal yellowing on new growth = iron deficiency. On old growth = magnesium deficiency.
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How to treat pale leaves in Calathea Makoyana
Apply chelated iron or Epsom salt as appropriate. Adjust soil pH.
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Preventing pale leaves in Calathea Makoyana
Use ericaceous compost for acid-loving plants. Feed with micronutrient fertiliser.