How to Grow Caladiums: Tips for Thriving Indoors and Outdoors

How to Grow Caladiums?

To grow caladiums, you should plant them after Mother’s Day when the soil is warm.

These plants thrive in warm weather and prefer partial shade or dappled sunlight.

They need well-drained, moist soil that is slightly acidic.

Water caladiums regularly to keep the soil slightly moist and add mulch to retain moisture.

Caladiums should be dug up before extended periods below 45°F in order to replant them the following year.

Use slow-release fertilizer or liquid feed for potted caladiums, applying it once a growing season.

Caladiums can be affected by pests and fungal pathogens, so keep an eye out for signs of infestation or disease.

Key Points:

  • Plant caladiums after Mother’s Day when the soil is warm
  • Caladiums thrive in warm weather and prefer partial shade or dappled sunlight
  • They need well-drained, moist soil that is slightly acidic
  • Regularly water caladiums to keep the soil slightly moist and use mulch to retain moisture
  • Dig up caladiums before extended periods below 45°F to replant them the following year
  • Use slow-release fertilizer or liquid feed for potted caladiums once a growing season
  • Be vigilant for signs of pests or fungal pathogens affecting the caladiums


Did You Know?

1. The caladium plant is native to the rainforests of South America, particularly Brazil, Colombia, and Venezuela.

2. Caladiums are part of the Araceae family, which also includes popular houseplants like philodendrons and pothos.

3. Did you know that caladium plants are sometimes referred to as “elephant ear plants” due to the shape of their large, heart-shaped leaves?

4. Caladiums were first introduced to Europe in the late 1700s by botanist Archibald Menzies, who discovered them during an expedition to South America.

5. While caladiums are typically grown for their striking and colorful foliage, they also produce small, delicate flowers that can be easy to miss if you’re not specifically looking for them.

Introduction To Caladiums

Caladiums, also known as Elephant’s Ears or Angel Wings, are cherished for their stunning foliage and vibrant colors. These plants, with the botanical name Caladium spp., belong to the Araceae family. They are native to South America and Central America and are commonly grown as tubers.

Caladiums can be grown as perennials or annuals and reach a mature size of 12-30 inches tall and wide. While they thrive in warm weather, they require partial to full shade and well-drained, organically rich soil.

  • Cherished for stunning foliage and vibrant colors
  • Belong to the Araceae family
  • Native to South America and Central America
  • Commonly grown as tubers
  • Can be grown as perennials or annuals
  • Mature size of 12-30 inches tall and wide
  • Thrive in warm weather
  • Require partial to full shade
  • Need well-drained, organically rich soil

“Caladiums are treasured for their exceptional foliage and vivid hues.”

Growing Conditions For Caladiums

To ensure the healthy growth of caladiums, it is important to provide them with the right growing conditions. These plants prefer partial, dappled, or full shade. Direct sun exposure should be limited to the morning hours, as their colorful foliage can fade in bright sunlight. Caladiums require well-drained, moist soil with a slightly acidic pH level ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. It is recommended to amend the garden soil with organic matter before planting caladiums. For potted caladiums, high-quality potting soil enriched with organic matter should be used.

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Caladiums thrive in high humidity and temperatures above 60°F at night. They are not reliably winter hardy in zones north of 10, therefore, in colder regions, they should be dug up before an extended period below 45°F to be replanted next year. These plants are also toxic to both humans and pets, so caution must be taken while handling them.

Planting And Care For Caladiums

The ideal time for planting caladiums is after Mother’s Day when the soil has warmed up. Some gardeners prefer to dig up the tubers in the fall when the foliage dies back and store them until late spring for replanting. Others choose to buy fresh bulbs or plants every growing season. Caladiums should be spaced about 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper growth.

Once planted, caladiums are generally carefree as long as their basic needs are met. Watering regularly is important to keep the soil slightly moist, especially during warm weather. Adding a layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. However, during their dormant period, which usually occurs in the winter, watering can be stopped until spring.

Overwintering And Storage Of Caladiums

In regions where caladiums are not reliably winter hardy, overwintering and storage becomes necessary. The tubers should be dug up before an extended period below 45°F. To overwinter them, the tubers should be carefully cleaned and stored in a well-ventilated and dry area. They can be stored in a tray or box filled with peat moss or vermiculite, making sure the tubers are not touching each other. The storage area should be cool, between 50-60°F, and away from extreme temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight.

  • Dig up the tubers before an extended period below 45°F
  • Clean the tubers and store them in a well-ventilated and dry area
  • Use a tray or box filled with peat moss or vermiculite
  • Make sure the tubers do not touch each other
  • Store in a cool area, between 50-60°F
  • Keep the storage area away from extreme temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight.

“The storage area should be cool, between 50-60°F, and away from extreme temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight.”

Fertilizing And Watering Caladiums

Caladiums benefit from regular fertilization and watering. Slow-release fertilizer or liquid feed can be used for potted caladiums. Slow-release fertilizer should be applied once during the growing season, while water-soluble fertilizers can be applied every two to four weeks. Soil testing is recommended for caladiums planted in the garden. However, a general 12-6-6 fertilizer can be used every six weeks to ensure proper nutrition.

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Caladiums should be watered regularly to keep the soil slightly moist. During dry periods, it is essential to provide sufficient water to prevent the leaves from wilting. Mulching can help retain soil moisture, especially in hot and dry climates. However, once caladiums go dormant, watering should be stopped until the plants start showing signs of growth in spring.

  • Use slow-release fertilizer or liquid feed for potted caladiums
  • Apply slow-release fertilizer once during the growing season
  • Apply water-soluble fertilizers every two to four weeks
  • Consider soil testing for caladiums planted in the garden
  • Use a general 12-6-6 fertilizer every six weeks
  • Water caladiums regularly to keep the soil slightly moist
  • Provide sufficient water during dry periods to prevent wilting
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture in hot and dry climates
  • Stop watering caladiums once they go dormant until they start showing signs of growth in spring.

Common Pests And Problems With Caladiums

Caladium plants can be susceptible to various pests and diseases. Pests such as mealybugs, mites, thrips, and whiteflies may affect the foliage and overall health of the plant. Regular inspection and treatment with organic or chemical insecticides can help control these pests.

Fungal pathogens, including Rhizoctonia and Pythium species, can infect the tubers of caladiums, leading to diseases such as root rot. Proper soil drainage and avoiding overwatering can help prevent fungal infections. Additionally, maintaining a clean and well-ventilated growing environment minimizes the risk of disease.

Changes in care routines or nutrient deficiencies from poorly managed soil can cause issues with caladium foliage. Drooping leaves before dormancy are normal, but if all leaves drop, it could indicate either too dry or wet soil. Yellowing leaves may signify changes in care routines or nutrient deficiencies, while browning leaves may be caused by dry soil, excessive sunlight, low humidity, or over-fertilization. Regular observation and adjustment of care will help ensure the vitality of your caladium plants.

  • Regular inspection and treatment with organic or chemical insecticides can help control pests.
  • Proper soil drainage and avoiding overwatering can help prevent fungal infections.
  • Maintain a clean and well-ventilated growing environment to minimize the risk of disease.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Where do caladiums grow best?

Caladiums thrive in locations that mimic the high humidity found in Central and South America, their native environments. They require temperatures to remain consistently warm, ideally above 60°F even during the night. It is worth noting that caladiums may not withstand colder temperatures and are not typically winter hardy in areas north of USDA plant hardiness zone 10.

How do you make caladiums grow faster?

If you want to speed up the growth of caladiums, you can try pre-sprouting the tubers indoors. Plant them in slightly damp potting soil and provide them with adequate lighting, either through artificial lights or by placing them in a sunny window. To promote faster growth, maintain a consistent temperature of around 70-75° Fahrenheit day and night. With these optimal conditions, your caladiums are likely to grow at a quicker pace and provide you with a vibrant display of color.

Do caladiums prefer sun or shade?

Caladiums thrive in environments that offer shade to part shade. They prefer receiving two to four hours of direct sun, particularly in the morning. However, they also flourish in areas with bright dappled light. Under these conditions, caladiums will exhibit vibrant and abundant foliage, showcasing their large and colorful leaves.

Can caladium grow in water only?

Caladiums can indeed be grown in water alone, making it a convenient option for those who prefer a hassle-free gardening experience. By uprooting the plant and placing it in a vase filled with water, the caladium can thrive and bring its vibrant beauty to any space. This method eliminates the need for soil and allows for a visually pleasing display of the plant’s colorful foliage. However, it is worth noting that ensuring proper lighting conditions and regularly changing the water are essential for the successful growth of the caladium in water.

References: 1, 2, 3, 4

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