To care for a prayer plant indoors, provide bright, indirect light, maintain high humidity, use well-draining soil, and ensure the soil is kept evenly moist but not soggy. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves, and overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Light:
Place the prayer plant near a window that receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
Humidity:
Prayer plants thrive in high humidity, similar to their native rainforest habitat.
Increase humidity by using a humidifier, misting the leaves regularly, or placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water.
Ensure the pot doesn't sit in standing water to prevent root rot.
Soil:
Use a high-quality, all-purpose potting mix that drains well.
Prayer plants prefer a slightly acidic pH of 5.5 to 6.0.
Watering:
Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering.
Water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain through the drainage holes.
Discard any water that collects in the saucer after a few minutes.
Use room temperature water, as ice-cold water can shock the roots.
Fertilizing:
Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly during spring and summer.
Reduce or cease fertilizing during winter when growth slows down.
Temperature:
Prayer plants prefer temperatures between 65-85 degrees F.
Pruning:
You can prune prayer plants to encourage full, vigorous growth.
Use sterilized scissors and clip the stems right above a leaf node.
Other Tips:
Consider grouping prayer plants together to increase humidity.
Monitor for brown leaf tips, which can indicate low humidity or overwatering.
Prune yellow or brown leaves to encourage new growth.
If you notice the undersides of the leaves losing color, it could be due to too much light.