Troubleshooting
Velvet Calathea problems — and how to fix them
Velvet Calathea (Goeppertia warscewiczii) 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.
Browning leaf margins
Mineral salts and fluoride from tap water, or low humidity. Use distilled/rainwater and raise humidity.
Drooping or wilting
Most often dryness or cold; check soil moisture and keep away from draughts and heating vents.
Yellowing lower leaves
Overwatering or poor drainage waterlogs roots. Let the surface dry and ensure the pot drains freely.
Spider mites and fungus gnats
Mites thrive in dry air; gnats appear in constantly wet soil. Treat mites with insecticidal soap and let the surface dry to deter gnats.
Prevent velvet calathea problems before they start
Most velvet calathea issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Velvet Calathea varieties: common problems
Looking for velvet calathea in general rather than its problems? Read the full velvet calathea care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Velvet Calathea problems — FAQ
Why is my velvet calathea browning leaf margins?
Mineral salts and fluoride from tap water, or low humidity. Use distilled/rainwater and raise humidity.
Why is my velvet calathea drooping or wilting?
Most often dryness or cold; check soil moisture and keep away from draughts and heating vents.
Why is my velvet calathea yellowing lower leaves?
Overwatering or poor drainage waterlogs roots. Let the surface dry and ensure the pot drains freely.
Why is my velvet calathea spider mites and fungus gnats?
Mites thrive in dry air; gnats appear in constantly wet soil. Treat mites with insecticidal soap and let the surface dry to deter gnats.