The Calathea is originally from the Brazilian rainforest, and therefore is used to tropical conditions. This means it thrives in an environment with high humidity and regular water. However, the plant does not like it if it's constantly standing with its feet in the water, and who would! So be careful not to leave a layer of water at the bottom of the pot. Keep your Calathea's soil slightly moist and provide a regular boost in humidity, and it'll do juuust fine.

Place the Calathea in a spot that gets good light, but not directly in the sun. This houseplant is very sensitive to an excess of sunlight, and will soon get brown leaves if it's getting too much. In the tropical rainforest, the Calathea is used to surviving under the canopy of large trees, where there's little to no sunlight. A few feet away from a window on the East or West is a good place for the Calathea, but ideally this plant is placed in front of a window facing North. Avoid any drafts as these plants prefer warmer climates!

In the summer, it may be good to give some plant nutrition once every two weeks. This is totally unnecessary in winter, however, because Calatheas are in hibernation mode. Feeding in winter can even have negative consequences because the plant can't get absorb of all those nutrients.