Calathea sanderiana

Why is Calathea sanderiana good for dogs?

Calathea sanderiana is one of the few houseplants that is completely non-toxic to dogs. It does not contain any harmful substances that could lead to symptoms of poisoning. On the contrary, it even has healing properties and was once used to neutralize arrow poison. However, this does not mean that you should give your dog the plant to eat. This can lead to stomach upset or diarrhea. Your dog could also damage or tear the plant.

So if you have a dog and are looking for a beautiful houseplant, Calathea sanderiana is a good choice. Not only does it look attractive, but it's also harmless to your four-legged friend. You don't have to worry about your dog getting poisoned or sick if he nibbles on the plant or accidentally swallows it.

How can you care for Calathea sanderiana?

Calathea sanderiana is an easy-to-care-for houseplant with few requirements. Here are some tips on how to care for it properly:

• Location: Choose a semi-shady location for your Calathea sanderiana. It does not tolerate direct sunlight, as this can burn or fade its leaves. A bright room or a window spot with slightly closed curtains is ideal.
• Temperature: Keep the temperature between 15 and 23 degrees Celsius. Avoid rooms that are too cold or too hot, as this can stress or damage the plant. Also ensure a constant temperature without strong fluctuations.
• Humidity: Ensure high humidity around your Calathea sanderiana. You can achieve this by spraying the plant regularly, using a humidifier or placing it in a bowl filled with water.
• Watering: Water your Calathea sanderiana regularly with lime-free water. The soil should always be slightly moist, but not wet or dry. Waterlogging can lead to root rot, dryness can lead to wilted or brown leaves.
• Fertilize: Fertilize your Calathea sanderiana with a liquid fertilizer at half concentration every two weeks during the growing season from spring to autumn. In winter, you can reduce or skip fertilizing altogether.
• Pruning: Cut off wilted or dried leaves with clean, sharp scissors. This promotes the growth of new leaves and prevents diseases or pests.
• Repotting: Repot your Calathea sanderiana every two to three years to give it more space and fresh soil. Use an air-permeable and humus-rich potting soil with a pH value between 4.5 and 5.5. Make sure that the pot has good drainage.

How can you propagate Calathea sanderiana?

Calathea sanderiana can be propagated in two ways: by dividing the rootstock or by cuttings.

• Division of the rootstock: This method is the easiest and quickest. You can use it when repotting your Calathea sanderiana. Take the plant out of the old pot and carefully divide the rhizome into several parts with a knife. Each part should have at least a few leaves and roots. Place the parts in new pots with fresh soil and water them well. Keep the soil moist and place the pots in a warm and bright place.
• Cuttings: This method is a little more time-consuming, but also possible. You can use it if you cut off individual leaves from your Calathea sanderiana. Cut off a healthy leaf with a piece of stem and place it in a glass of water. Place the glass in a warm and bright place and change the water regularly. Roots should form after a few weeks. You can then plant the cutting in a pot with soil.