Responses of Calathea species in different growing media

Pot experiments were conducted at the National Horticultural Research Institute (NIHORT), Ibadan to investigate the most suitable medium for the growing of Calathea species. Four Calathea species namely: C. ornata; C.nigerica; C. princeps and C.zebrina, were planted each in three growing media made up of top soil; top soil and poultry manure (3:1) and top soil+ poultry manure +river sand (2:1:1). Results showed that the number of leaves, the plant height , and the number of plantlets produced per pot were best enhanced in the substrate of top soil and poultry manure mixtures. Although C.nigerica produced higher number of leaves and taller plants than C. zebrina, the latter may be preferred because of its more attractive leaves and its many plantlets that quickly fill the growing container. Key words: growth , container, media, Calathea Species.