Caladiums , with their vivacious and various foliage , are a democratic pick for both indoor and outdoor gardening . Known for their heart - shape leave , they can append a splash of color to any mount .
However , to keep these tropical beauties boom all year around , it ’s all-important to empathize the basics ofcaladium tending . fortuitously , this article will guide you through the best practices for taking precaution of caladium plants in every time of year .
Varieties of Caladium Plants
Caladiums are celebrated for their spectacular regalia of varieties , each exhibiting unique patterns and colors . Among the multitude , several speciesstand out for their decided characteristics .
The Caladium bicolor , commonly known as the ' Angel Wings ' , is renowned for its heart - shaped leaves and vivacious combinations of pink , greenish , and white . Another popular diversity of fancy foliage caladiums is the Caladium x hortulanum , which include the striking ' Florida Sweetheart ' with its pinkish and green foliage and the ' Moonlight ' with its creamy - white leaves .
The Caladium ' Florida Red Ruffles ' is admired for its mystifying red leaves and intemperately ruffled edges , making it a visually dynamic choice . For those favour subtler elegance , the Caladium ' Candidum ' offers a classic flavor with its large , white leaves and contrasting green nervure .
Whether used for creating lush , tropical landscape or as prominent accents in container , the diverse varieties of caladium flora offer endless possibility for beautification and use .
Spring: Awakening and Planting
In early or late spring , the ideal time of year to plant caladiums , pick out a fix that offers filter sunlight and well - drained territory . For indoor planting , see to it the localisation receives bright , indirect light . Caladiums prefer slightly acidulous to achromatic soil , with a pH grade from 6.0 to 7.0 .
When planting , swallow up the caladium bulbs roughly 1 - 2 in deep , ensuring the knob or center bud face upward . Initially , it ’s important to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged , which can leave in ascendant rot . After the emergence of leaves , irrigate the caladiums whenever the top inch of the filth control surface feel dry .
Summer: Growth and Maintenance
During summertime , caladiums thrive in warm and humid environment . Outdoor plants should be placed in partial tad , while indoor plants require bright , indirect light . Warm temperatures are a must , but too much direct sunlight can damage your plant .
It ’s vital to maintain ordered soil wet levels and high humidity around the plant , which can be achieved through befog or using a humidifier . To support their robust growing season , apply a balanced , water - soluble fertilizer every four to six weeks .
Fall: Preparing for Dormancy
As early fall approach and temperatures begin to cast off , reduce the watering oftenness . This reducing signals the plant to machinate for dormancy . When the foliage start to yellow and die back , decrease irrigate even further and discontinue fertilization .
In regions with cold temperatures , it ’s necessary to dig up the bulbs before the first frost . After allowing them to dry out for a few years , salt away them in a cool , dry place throughout the wintertime .
Winter: Dormancy Period
During winter , store caladium bulbs in a wry , nerveless field with temperatures around 50 - 60 ° F ( 10 - 15 ° C ) , avoiding any sphere with freeze temperature or unreasonable passion . Periodically scrutinize the salt away bulbs for planetary house of rot or scathe , discarding any that are not levelheaded .
This dormancy time period is important for the bulbs to rejuvenate and prepare for the coming growing time of year . By taking the proper precautions , you’re able to have clean bulb come spring !
Year-Round Caladium Care
To maintain sizable caladiums year - round , it ’s crucial to manage common pestilence such as aphid and spider pinch . veritable inspection and treatments with appropriate organic or chemical control are necessary . Leaf upkeep is also crucial ; softly wipe the parting with a dampish fabric to remove dust and promote efficient photosynthesis , avoiding leaf shine ware that can block the pores .
For potted caladiums , repotting every yoke of years or when they appear overcrowded is beneficial , provide fresh soil and more space for growth . Lastly , splay your caladiums periodically to ensure even growth on all incline , particularly for those kept indoors . This rotation is peculiarly of import for indoor caladiums to ascertain that all side of the plant receive passable light . Otherwise , those lime green leaves might not grow evenly .
By adhering to these maintenance instructions throughout the year , your caladium will remain vibrant and healthy , add together a burst of colour to your garden or indoor infinite in every time of year .
Spring and Summer Caladium Tips for Potted Tubers
you may buy caladiums as pot plant or as abeyant tubers . Keep these horticulture tip in thinker as you grow your tropical plant life :
Fall and Winter Caladium Tips for Larger Tubers
Since they ’re perennials , you ’ll have to move your caladiums within in the tumble after their foliage yellows and start to wilt . While they can be grown indoors , keep the following care tips in judgement :
If you ’d like to replant your caladiums indoors , it ’s advisable to give them a relaxation period of at least a calendar month before replanting [ beginning : Roger ’s Gardens ] . recall , the caladium plant may be poisonous so keep it away from pets and children . Also , impinging with cadmium sap may irritate your skin [ source : Britannica ] .
Plant Caladiums In Your Home or Garden Beds
Caladiums are a gorgeous and active add-on to any garden or base . By understanding their seasonal needs and providing the right precaution , you’re able to savour their stunning foliage throughout the year .
Each form may have more or less different needs , so it ’s always proficient to research the specific needs of your pick out case . With these wind , you ’re well on your way to becoming a successful caladium nurseryman , savour their vibrant beauty in all seasons .
This article was update in conjunction with AI technology , then fact - hold and blue-pencil by a HowStuffWorks editor .
