Prayer Plant

(August 2010)

My prayer plant is in the carport out of the sun I water as needed and it is putting out a new leaf in the center, but it prays constantly. Does it want to be in the house where it is 73 degrees? I want it to be happy; please advise me.

Maybe it is on a religious retreat!! I personally would rather be inside in 73 degrees versus outside with 100+! Typically the prayer plant or Maranta closes at night in relationship to light and dark. I would say your plant is stressed in some way. As hot as it has been, it may be a reaction to the heat. It may not be getting enough light. It also likes even moisture, but can’t tolerate wet feet, so rots easily—and is very shallow rooted, so it can dry out quickly. Try moving it inside and put it in a room with good morning light and see if it doesn’t come out of its prayer routine. Make sure you are watering properly and the plant has a healthy root system. It should be easier to manage the water needs indoors versus outside.

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