I first purchased a pair of Rhaphidophora plants over three years ago.
They had been flourishing well until one morning when watering my Rhaphidophora; I saw that part of the leaves had curled up, which should be the reason for concern for any gardener.
I was curious why this occurred, so I researched and compiled a list of things to look into before becoming concerned.
Rhaphidophora leaves curl if they are not watered regularly enough or overwatered, have insufficient lighting, are overfertilized, or are subject to temperature variations. It is all about balancing these variables to get the optimum results for your plant’s growth.
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It can happen for various causes, and this article will explain how to deal with Rhaphidophora leaves curling.
Continue reading to learn more about Rhaphidophora leaves, why they curl, and what you can do to keep your plant healthy.
Table of Contents
Is it Normal for Rhaphidophora Leaves to Curl?
To stay happy and healthy, the Rhaphidophora plant needs enough light, water, and nutrition.
If there aren’t enough of them, the plant will begin to show signs of distress. Your plant’s curled leaves are another sign that it’s stressed.
When the leaves of your plant begin to curl, you may be sure that something is happening.
Curling Rhaphidophora plant leaves, on the other hand, aren’t always the cause for concern. Examine your plants as a whole, and if they appear to be mainly healthy, don’t get too upset about a few curled leaves.
So, unless the plant’s broad leaves are healthy, a few curled leaves here and there are typical.
Common Reason and Solutions for Rhaphidophora Leaves Curling
The most crucial issue is to figure out what is causing the Rhaphidophora leaves to curl. However, no single factor can cause it.
Rhaphidophora leaves curling can be caused by over or underwatering, insufficient lighting, humidity, temperature, or even fertilizer. It’s all about balancing these variables to get the optimum results for your plant’s growth.
Thus, I’ve described the causes and how to deal with them below.
| Reasons | Solutions |
|---|---|
| Overwatering | During the summer and spring, water it regularly. You can water it every week or so. |
| Underwatering | Check the soil periodically to monitor water content. Water when top 75% is dry |
| Humidity | Maintain a humidity level of 50 - 60%. |
| Light | Never put the plant in direct sunlight. Instead, set it in a place where they receive indirect bright light. |
| Temperature | Place the plant in ideal temperature, i.e., 55°F to 85°F. |
| Over-Fertilization | Use a well-balanced, high-quality, slow-release balanced organic fertilizer with an NPK value of 20-20-20. |
1. Underwatering the Plant
Keep the Rhaphidophora plant wet if you want it to flourish to its full potential. Rhaphidophora plant prefers to drink water in moderation.
The moisture should be even and steady for this plant to thrive. As a result, keep the soil moist at all times to avoid curled leaves. Instead of letting it get dry for long periods, water it regularly.
When watering, make sure to water thoroughly and evenly throughout the soil, allowing water to flow through the pot’s bottom holes. Because all sections of the roots are touched by water, the plant is well hydrated.
Water the plant when the top 75 percent of the soil is dry.
Furthermore, if it grows faster in the summer and spring, it may need to be watered more frequently.
The plant should be ok with watering every two weeks in milder climates or over the winter.
2. Overwatering the Plant
Although Rhaphidophora plants are thirsty for water and can withstand muddy and soggy soil, you must be careful not to overwater them since this can cause curling of the leaves.
The frequency with which you need water depends on how bright the sun ranges are; nonetheless, you can let them dry out a little.
Always feel the soil with your finger to see if it’s damp. Do not water the plant if the soil seems moist; you can constantly water it the next day or check it later, depending on the time.
Also, when the top inch of soil is dry, water the plant.
That’s the most accurate way to tell if it’s time to water it.
Double-check that there is no excess water in the saucer, as this might cause root rot.
3. Low Humidity
The Rhaphidophora plant thrives in humid environments.
Tropical plants, such as Rhaphidophora prefer a higher humidity level around the plant than one may assume, and low humidity could be one factor contributing to the curled leaves.
In general, maintaining a 50 – 60 percent humidity level is ideal for the plant to thrive.
You can compensate for the absence of humidity by adopting a few simple techniques. One of them is misting.
A pebble tray filled with water placed beneath the container is also beneficial.
You can also group your plants and let them determine their optimal levels. Finally, a humidifier is an option.
4. Light and Temperature
When Rhaphidophora plants are exposed to indirect bright light, they thrive. The best is to keep them out of direct sunlight, though.
When exposed to bright light, the plant leaves will dry out, and this is when Rhaphidophora leaves turn yellow and start forming a curl-like shape.
You can put them near a window that faces the sunrise to ensure that they get plenty of light. If you keep them indoors, you can supplement their light with an artificial grow lamp.
For their healthy development, temperatures between 55 degrees Fahrenheit and 85 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal. However, remember to bring them in when the temperature drops below 55 degrees Fahrenheit at night.
They do well outside during the summer, but you don’t have to set it out if you prefer to keep your indoor plants entirely within.
5. Overfertilizing the Plant
These plants’ root systems are susceptible, which means that potent fertilizer can quickly burn them and cause them to suffer.
To avoid scorching the plant’s roots, use a slow-release organic fertilizer, and don’t overfertilize it.
During its active growth phase, Rhaphidophora likes regular fertilization.
Liquid organic fertilizers with NPK 20-20-20 should be used once a month, while chemical liquid fertilizers should be applied every two weeks.
Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and don’t overdo it with slow-release organic fertilizers.
During the colder months, when growth slows, reduce fertilization substantially or totally.
Be sure to use a fertilizer that is free of nitrogen and harsh chemicals.
Tips to Prevent Curly Leaves in Rhaphidophora
There are ways to tackle most problems in the world, and this is no different.
Follow the tips below to prevent Rhaphidophora leaves from curling and give them a better life.
- During the summer and spring, make sure to water it regularly.
- Mist the leaves of the plant regularly. Keeping the plant in your home’s humidity (usually around 50 – 60%) helps.
- Maintain the temperature between 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the houseplant where it thrives – bright and indirect light environment.
Conclusion
Now that you know what could be causing your Rhaphidophora to curl, you can cure your leaf curling issues and get your plants back in good shape.
You’ll have to put in some effort to keep them healthy, but they’re incredibly gratifying plants to have in your home.
It is critical to provide them with the proper water, soil, light, and temperature to thrive.
If you provide this plant with the attention it requires, you will notice significant changes in the appearance of your plant, as well as your leaves, flashing and thriving.
Make moderate improvements and monitor the plant’s health daily to see if it improves.
