Ctenanthe Golden Mosaic 8”

Light
- Place your Ctenanthe ‘Golden Mosaic’ in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate lower light conditions but will grow best and maintain its vibrant leaf patterns in brighter spots. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.

Watering
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. This plant dislikes both overwatering and underwatering, so maintaining a balance is key.
- Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.

Humidity
- Ctenanthe plants love high humidity. Regular misting, placing the plant on a humidity tray, or using a humidifier can help maintain moisture levels. This plant is prone to dry, crispy leaf edges if the air is too dry.

Temperature
- Keep the plant in a warm environment, between 65-80°F. Avoid cold drafts or sudden temperature changes, as it can stress the plant. Temperatures below 60°F should be avoided.

Soil
- Use a well-draining, peat-based potting mix. A mix that retains some moisture while providing good aeration is ideal. A blend of peat moss, perlite, and regular potting soil works well.

Fertilizing
- Feed your Ctenanthe once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half-strength. Reduce feeding in the fall and stop altogether during winter when growth slows down.

Repotting
- Repot your plant every 1-2 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that’s 1-2 inches larger in diameter, preferably in the spring. Make sure the new pot has drainage holes.

Pruning
- Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to keep the plant looking tidy and encourage new growth. This also helps prevent pests and diseases from settling in dead foliage.

Pests
- Keep an eye out for spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Regularly check the undersides of the leaves and treat any infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Propagation
- Ctenanthe plants can be propagated by division during repotting. Gently separate the root ball into sections and pot them into fresh soil.

Special Considerations
- Ctenanthe are sensitive to chemicals in tap water, such as fluoride or chlorine. If possible, use **filtered, distilled, or rainwater** to avoid brown leaf tips.