Troubleshooting
Network Calathea problems — and how to fix them
Network Calathea (Goeppertia musaica) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Brown, crispy leaf edges
Caused by low humidity or mineral/fluoride build-up from tap water. Switch to distilled or rainwater and raise ambient humidity.
Faded or scorched mosaic pattern
Too much direct sun bleaches the fine network. Move to bright indirect light.
Curling, limp leaves
Usually underwatering or cold, dry air; check that the top of the mix has not dried out completely.
Spider mites
Dry indoor air invites mites under the leaves. Inspect regularly, rinse foliage, and treat with insecticidal soap.
Prevent network calathea problems before they start
Most network calathea issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for network calathea in general rather than its problems? Read the full network calathea care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Network Calathea problems — FAQ
Why is my network calathea brown, crispy leaf edges?
Caused by low humidity or mineral/fluoride build-up from tap water. Switch to distilled or rainwater and raise ambient humidity.
Why is my network calathea faded or scorched mosaic pattern?
Too much direct sun bleaches the fine network. Move to bright indirect light.
Why is my network calathea curling, limp leaves?
Usually underwatering or cold, dry air; check that the top of the mix has not dried out completely.
Why is my network calathea spider mites?
Dry indoor air invites mites under the leaves. Inspect regularly, rinse foliage, and treat with insecticidal soap.