The Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura) is a popular houseplant known for its vibrant leaves and unique ability to fold up at night, resembling hands in prayer. However, if you notice your Prayer Plant’s leaves curling during the day, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. But don’t panic! With the right care and immediate action, you can revive your plant and restore its health. In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes of curling leaves and exactly what you should do to save your Prayer Plant.
I’ve provided detailed information in the article below to help with your concerns, However, if you still have questions or need more help, feel free to share photos of your plants or describe your issue on our Facebook Group. Just join the group and leave a comment on the most recent post — either I or someone from the community will respond as soon as possible. We also share helpful and unique plant care tips daily, so consider joining the group to stay updated!
Why Are My Prayer Plant Leaves Curling?
Several factors can cause your Prayer Plant’s leaves to curl. Identifying the underlying issue is the first step to fixing the problem. Let’s take a closer look at the most common causes:
1. Underwatering
One of the most frequent reasons for curling leaves is lack of water. Prayer Plants thrive in consistently moist soil, and when they don’t get enough water, their leaves curl to reduce moisture loss.
Signs of Underwatering:
- Dry, crispy leaf edges
- Leaves curling inward
- Soil feels dry to the touch
- Droopy appearance
- Stunted growth
How to Fix It:
- Water your plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
- Consider bottom watering by placing the pot in a tray of water for 10-15 minutes.
- Maintain a consistent watering schedule to prevent future issues.
- Use a self-watering pot if you often forget to water.
2. Overwatering
While Prayer Plants need moisture, too much water can be just as harmful. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which causes leaves to curl, turn yellow, and eventually drop.
Signs of Overwatering:
- Yellowing leaves
- Mushy or blackened roots
- Foul smell from the soil
- Persistent wet soil
- Wilting despite moist soil
How to Fix It:
- Check the soil before watering – only water when the top inch is dry.
- Ensure your pot has drainage holes to prevent excess water accumulation.
- If you suspect root rot, repot your plant in fresh, well-draining soil and trim any damaged roots.
- Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
- Use a well-aerated soil mix with peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark.
3. Low Humidity
Prayer Plants are native to tropical environments and require high humidity levels. Dry indoor air can cause their leaves to curl and brown at the edges.
How to Increase Humidity:
- Place a humidifier near your plant.
- Mist the leaves regularly with distilled or filtered water.
- Group plants together to create a microclimate.
- Use a pebble tray filled with water under the plant’s pot.
- Place the plant in naturally humid areas, such as the bathroom or kitchen.
4. Temperature Stress
Prayer Plants are sensitive to temperature changes. If exposed to cold drafts, direct heat, or sudden fluctuations, their leaves may curl as a defense mechanism.
Ideal Temperature Range:
- Keep the plant in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C).
- Avoid placing it near air conditioners, heaters, or open windows.
- Move the plant away from doors that frequently open to cold air.
- Protect the plant from sudden temperature drops at night.
5. Poor Lighting Conditions
Prayer Plants prefer bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can scorch their delicate leaves, causing them to curl and develop brown spots. On the other hand, too little light can lead to weak growth.
How to Provide Proper Lighting:
- Place your plant near an east or north-facing window.
- Use sheer curtains to diffuse direct sunlight.
- If natural light is insufficient, supplement with a grow light.
- Rotate the plant occasionally to ensure even light exposure.
6. Nutrient Deficiency
Lack of essential nutrients like magnesium, calcium, or nitrogen can cause curling leaves and stunted growth.
How to Fix It:
- Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (diluted to half strength) every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Consider adding Epsom salt (for magnesium) or crushed eggshells (for calcium) to the soil.
- Use organic compost to enrich the soil with micronutrients.
- Flush the soil occasionally to remove excess fertilizer buildup.
7. Pests and Diseases
Pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs can suck the sap from the leaves, leading to curling, discoloration, and weakening of the plant.
How to Treat and Prevent Pests:
- Regularly inspect the undersides of leaves for signs of pests.
- Wipe leaves with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap.
- Introduce natural predators like ladybugs if growing in an outdoor setting.
- Isolate infected plants to prevent the spread of pests.
- Apply neem oil as a natural pest deterrent.
8. Root Bound Issues
If your Prayer Plant has been in the same pot for a long time, its roots might outgrow the space, leading to water and nutrient deficiencies.
How to Fix It:
- Check if roots are growing out of the drainage holes.
- If root-bound, repot your plant in a container 1-2 inches larger than the current one.
- Use a fresh, well-draining potting mix for optimal growth.
- Gently loosen the root ball before repotting to encourage healthy root development.
9. Chemical Sensitivity
Prayer Plants are sensitive to chemicals commonly found in tap water, such as chlorine and fluoride, which can cause leaf curling and browning.
How to Fix It:
- Use filtered, distilled, or rainwater for watering.
- Let tap water sit out for 24 hours to allow chlorine to evaporate.
- Avoid using chemically treated water.
Immediate Steps to Revive a Curling Prayer Plant
If your plant’s leaves are curling, follow these steps immediately:
- Assess the Soil: Check if it’s too dry or too wet and adjust watering accordingly.
- Increase Humidity: Mist the plant or use a humidifier.
- Check the Temperature: Keep the plant in a warm, stable environment.
- Move the Plant if Needed: Ensure it’s receiving indirect, bright light.
- Inspect for Pests: Remove any insects and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.
- Feed the Plant: If nutrient deficiency is suspected, apply a balanced fertilizer.
- Repot if Necessary: If root-bound, move to a slightly larger pot with fresh soil.
- Switch to Chemical-Free Water: Use filtered or rainwater if tap water is affecting the plant.