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 and in container displays.

How to grow Caladium Plants:

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 your Caladiums 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.

Caladiums provide interest and whimsy to the 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!