How to grow Caladium Plants

Caladium Plants are beautiful. With colorful foliage options that are very easy to grow. They are native to South America and thrive in warm, humid climates. They can be displayed in garden beds, in container displays and as indoor houseplants.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase I may receive a commission at no extra costs to you.

Caladium Plant Details

Botanical Information:

• Scientific Name: Caladium species
• Family: Araceae

Appearance:

• Caladiums are prized for their large, heart-shaped or arrowhead-shaped leaves.
• The leaves can come in a variety of vibrant colors, including shades of green, pink, red, and white.
• Some popular cultivars include ‘White Christmas,’ ‘Pink Beauty,’ and ‘Red Flash.’

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Caladiums are tropical plants, so they thrive in warm and humid conditions. They are typically grown as perennials in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
• Soil: Well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic soil is ideal for caladiums.
• Light: Caladiums prefer filtered or indirect light. They can tolerate some morning sun, but intense sunlight can scorch their leaves.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Caladiums appreciate high humidity.

Propagation:

• Caladiums are usually propagated through tubers. Plant the tubers in the spring, after the last frost, about 2 inches deep.
• Tubers can be divided during the dormant season, allowing you to create new plants.

Maintenance:

• Remove yellow or damaged leaves regularly to promote new growth.
• Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

Indoor Care:

• Caladiums can be grown indoors in containers as houseplants. Ensure they receive bright, indirect light.
• Maintain a warm and humid environment, and avoid drafts.

Common Issues:

• Caladiums are generally susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs.
• Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to maintain well-draining soil.

Dormancy:

• Caladiums typically go dormant in the fall and winter, losing their leaves. During this time, reduce watering and allow the plant to rest.

Landscaping Uses:

• Caladiums are commonly used in shaded gardens and as border plants.
• They are also popular choices for adding color to tropical-themed landscapes.

Toxicity:

• Caladiums contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can be toxic if ingested. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.

How to grow Caladium Plants:

Growing outdoors in your garden couldn’t be any easier!

1. Choose a location. Caladiums need full sun to partial shade. They will do best in a spot that gets morning sun and afternoon shade. The soil should be rich and well-drained. If your soil is sandy, add some compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
2. Plant the tubers. Caladium tubers can be planted in the spring or fall. If you are planting in the spring, wait until the soil has warmed to at least 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant the tubers 2-4 inches deep and 6-8 inches apart.
3. Water and fertilize. Caladiums need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Fertilize them every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
4. Cut the flowers. Deadheading will encourage the plant to produce more foliage . Simply remove the blooms from the plant.
5. Overwinter the tubers. In colder climates, the tubers will need to be dug up and overwintered in a cool, dry place. To do this, dig up the tubers after the first frost. Shake off the soil and store them in a container of peat moss or sand. Keep the container in a cool, dark place until the spring.

How to Start Caladium tubers Indoors:

1. Choose a Pot(s). Tubers need to be planted a pot with drainage holes.
2. Soil. You can use a seed starting mix or a potting soil with good drainage. Bulbs do not like to stay wet.
3. Plant. Place your Tubers one inch deep and cover.
4. Water. Water your tubers when the pots are dry half way down.
5. Light. Give your Caladiums Bright indirect light while they are indoors.
6. Transition. After your frost free date has passed move your plants outside into shade. Gradually move them to part shade over the course of a week.

When planted outside you can grow Caladium plants in ground or in containers. Keep the soil moist but not soaking wet.

Caladium Care Tips:

• Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Protect the plants from strong winds.
• Watch for pests and diseases, such as aphids, spider mites, and leaf spot.

• Plant the tubers early in the spring, as soon as the soil has warmed up.
• Fertilize regularly with a balanced fertilizer.
• Water deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
• Provide partial shade in hot climates.

When you grow Caladium plants you provide interest and whimsy to your garden. They grow well in the shade and can fit into any type of garden design. If your a thrifty gardener you can save your tubers year after year which can save you money! Win win!

Happy Gardening!

More Posts you may be interested in:

1. How to get rid of grass seed heads in your lawn
2. Can you Plant Succulents in rocks? Succulent Rock Garden
3. How to Grow Sweet Potatoes In your Garden