Recently got this Rattlesnake plant & it was doing really well for a while, but the leaves have started turning yellow & brown, some of them died completely. I know they’re sensitive to lime in water & I’ve started using distilled water. I water according to Planta’s instructions & schedule. It has a small humidifier that runs ~4-8 hrs a day. I did fertilize it for the first time & i’m wondering if that could be the problem? Please help!!
Mine definitely doesn't like being directly next to the window/warm sun. It prefers staying a bit a way cuz it really got dry and crusty this summer... maybe that's the issue?
0 likes the window it is next to doesn’t get a whole lot of sun, but i think i will try moving it further away. thank you!
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Spider mite magnets. Make sure to treat regularly.
1 like would i be able to see spider mites on the leaves?
0 likes Usually you can see very fine webs and little dots. I usually rub my hand on a leaf. If you see little orange streaks left on your hand, it’s got spider mites.
1 like Thank you! Do you have any specific recommendations on what treatment to use?
0 likes I use neem oil but I am not having much success because I am inconsistent in my treatment. It would probably work if I got my act together.
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to treat spider mites, I use rubbing alcohol diluted in water. you spray it and wipe down every surface of the plant every 2-3 days
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I use AI for my plants and I uploaded your images. Here's what it says: The plant in your images appears to be a **Calathea**, specifically a **Calathea lancifolia** or a similar variety, known for its striking leaf patterns. The brown, crispy tips suggest that it might be experiencing some common issues related to water, humidity, or light conditions. Here are steps your friend can take to help the plant thrive: ### 1. **Watering Routine**: - **Solution**: Calatheas are sensitive to water quality and need consistent moisture without being waterlogged. - **Water Quality**: Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater, as tap water with high mineral content (especially fluoride or chlorine) can cause leaf damage. - **Watering Frequency**: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. The soil should stay consistently moist but never soggy. Make sure the pot has good drainage. ### 2. **Humidity**: - **Cause**: Calatheas thrive in high-humidity environments, and low humidity can cause the brown edges on the leaves. - **Solution**: Increase the humidity by placing the plant near a humidifier, misting it regularly, or placing the pot on a tray of pebbles with water. The ideal humidity level is above 60%. ### 3. **Light**: - **Cause**: Calatheas prefer indirect, bright light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, while too little light may lead to poor growth. - **Solution**: Place the plant in a spot with filtered or indirect light. Avoid putting it in direct sunlight as this can cause the leaves to burn. ### 4. **Temperature**: - **Solution**: Keep the plant in a stable environment with temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid cold drafts or placing it near heat sources like radiators or air conditioning units, as these can stress the plant. ### 5. **Fertilization**: - **Solution**: Feed the plant with a diluted, balanced houseplant fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Stop fertilizing in fall and winter when the plant's growth slows down. ### 6. **Pruning**: - **Solution**: Prune any brown or damaged leaves to encourage new growth. Use clean scissors and cut close to the base of the stem. By adjusting these environmental factors and providing proper care, your friend's Calathea should start to recover and thrive!
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