Plant of the month
For March, our plant of the month is the Maranta Lemon Lime, and we are totally in love with it! This little beauty instantly adds a pop of fresh, vibrant energy to any space with its cool fishbone-patterned leaves and spots in green and bright yellow – that is where it gets its “Lemon Lime” name from. The underside of the leaves often has a lighter green tone, which just gives it that extra touch. With its unique look and lovely pattern, it is perfect for giving your space a refreshing feel as spring gets closer!
Maranta Lemon Lime
Fun fact! he Maranta Lemon Lime is also called the “prayer plant” because its leaves fold up at night, like it is going to bed. It is always such a fun surprise to see in the morning! It doesn’t need tons of attention, but with a little care, it will settle in quickly and make your home feel a little greener every day. So, for March, find a cosy spot for this beauty and let it help bring the spring vibes into your home!
Care guide
Not only does the Maranta Lemon Lime brighten up your space, but it is also super fun to take care of! With the right attention, you can keep this beautiful plant around for years.
Fun fact! Marantas are originally from the tropics, where they grow as climbing and creeping plants. That means they can grow in all directions. So don’t be surprised if it suddenly changes direction or starts growing differently – it is just giving itself space to thrive!
Water
This plant loves a bit of moisture but isn’t a fan of too much. Keep the soil nice and moist, but make sure your Maranta doesn’t sit in water, as it doesn’t like that. Water it when the top layer of soil feels dry, but don’t let the soil dry out completely. In winter, give it a little less water since it is in its chill phase. Room temperature water is ideal! And avoid getting water on the leaves during watering – that can cause mold. Keep an eye on this, and your plant will stay happy!
Tip: If the leaves start curling or turning yellow at the bottom, give it a little extra water!
Light
Your Maranta Lemon Lime loves bright, indirect light! Place it near a window, but keep it out of direct sunlight since that can burn the leaves and cause brown spots. It is used to growing under a thick canopy in the tropics, where the light is naturally filtered. In winter, feel free to move it a bit closer to the window to get enough light for growth. It can handle some shade, but dark corners? Nope, that is not for her! If it is too dark, it will start stretching towards the light, which can make it grow long and leggy.
Soil
Marantas love well-draining soil, so it is super important to use a mix that is light and drains water quickly. Tip: Mix potting soil with a little perlite. This helps prevent water from collecting around the roots, which could cause root rot. And make sure the pot has good drainage holes – this way, the soil stays moist but never too soggy!
Temperature & Humidity
This plant is originally from tropical areas, so it loves warmth and a bit of extra moisture in the air. The ideal temperature for it is between 18-24°C, and it shouldn’t drop below 15°C at night. Try to avoid big temperature changes, so keep it away from drafts or next to a heater!
Humidity is also key: Marantas thrive in 40-60% humidity. If your home is a bit dry, give it a mist or use a humidifier from time to time.
Tip: Place a small dish of water next to the pot to boost humidity. This can help keep the leaves from falling or the stems from wilting, keeping your plant happy and vibrant!
Propagation
Want to grow more Marantas? Propagating this beauty is super easy and a fun way to get new plants, especially if yours is already doing well and you want a few extra cuttings! Here is how:
Step 1:
Pick a healthy, well-growing Maranta with strong roots. Spring or summer is the best time to propagate, as the plant is growing faster.
Step 2:
Gently remove the plant from its pot and inspect the roots. Be super careful not to damage them.
Step 3:
Look for natural separations in the root ball where you can divide the plant. If you find one, use sharp scissors or a knife to cut through it. Just make sure each piece has enough roots to grow on its own.
Step 4:
Fill a new pot with well-draining potting soil (mix in a bit of perlite). Place the new plant in the pot, press the soil down gently, and give it a drink of water.
Step 5:
Put the pot in a bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist (but not soggy), and after a few weeks, the new plant will start growing. Once the roots are strong and the plant is happy, treat it just like a full-grown Maranta. And voilà, you are ready to enjoy your brand new Maranta Lemon Lime!
Buy Maranta Lemon Lime
Now that you know all about the Maranta Lemon Lime, it is time to give it a cosy spot in your home! It will instantly bring a fresh, cheerful vibe and brighten up your space, exactly what you need as spring approaches. The best part? You can grab this beauty at a discount all throughout March! So, what are you waiting for? Make your home greener and more vibrant with the Maranta Lemon Lime!
Is the Lemon Lime Maranta rare?
Not really! While it is not rare, its stunning bright green leaves make it a favorite among plant lovers. It is definitely a showstopper!
How big do Lemon Lime Marantas get?
They usually grow about 30 cm tall and spread between 30-45 cm wide. It is perfect for a table or a cute spot on a shelf.
What is the difference between Calatheas and Marantas?
Marantas have oval-shaped leaves, while Calatheas can have all sorts of leaf shapes, like round, oval, and lance-shaped. Marantas also like to grow out and do great in hanging pots, while Calatheas tend to stay upright in pots. Plus, Marantas are more cold-tolerant, so no need to worry about them shivering! :)
Does the Maranta Lemon Lime need plant food?
Yes, during the growing season (early spring to fall), you can feed it every 2-4 weeks. In winter, when the plant is resting, skip the feeding. Always check the plant food label to make sure you are doing it right!
What pests are common on a Lemon Lime Maranta?
Marantas can get spider mites or mealybugs. If you spot white powdery spots or brown patches on the leaves, they might be infected. No need to panic; just use a natural insecticide like neem oil. Make sure there is good air circulation and enough humidity, and your plant will be happy!
How often should you repot a Lemon Lime Maranta?
Every 1-3 years is a good rule of thumb, but keep an eye on your plant – it will let you know when it is time for a new pot!